Need another word for Smother? Use these synonyms of Smother from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
suffocate
stifle
choke
throttle
gag
mute
silence
muffle
dampen
suppress
restrain
constrict
strangulate
asphyxiate
overwhelm
overpower
crush
extinguish
snuff
quell
subdue
overpower
overwhelm
dominate
repress
oppress
burden
weigh
overload
encumber
smother
stifle
suffocate
choke
gag
throttle
snuff
quell
subdue
repress
oppress.
Meaning of Smother
The primary meaning of the word "smother" is to suffocate or overwhelm something or someone.
Definitions
- To suffocate or overwhelm someone or something, typically by covering or surrounding them closely.
- To suppress or restrain a feeling, activity, or process.
- To cook food, especially meat, in a closed pan with a small amount of liquid, typically on a low heat.
Etymology of Smother
The word "smother" has its roots in Old English "smorian", which means "to suffocate" or "to stifle".
The term is also related to the Old Norse "smjora", meaning "to stifle" or "to suffocate".
Historically, the word has been used to describe the act of suffocating or overwhelming someone or something, and has evolved to include figurative meanings, such as suppressing or restraining feelings or activities.
Example Uses
- The fire was smothered by the thick layer of ash.
- She felt smothered by the responsibilities of caring for her elderly parents.
- The flowers were smothered by the heavy snowfall.
- The new policy is designed to smother the growth of the opposition party.
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
liberate
free
release
uncover
expose
ventilate
aerate
revive
revitalize
stimulate
energize
invigorate
animate
encourage
support
sustain
nurture
revive
refresh
renew
restore
rejuvenate
revitalize.