suppress

//səˈpres//

Verbs
C1

Translation

suppress

Definition

To suppress something means to forcibly put an end to it, to prevent it from being expressed, or to keep it hidden. This verb is often used in contexts of controlling emotions, actions, information, or uprisings. For example, you might suppress a yawn during a meeting, suppress a rebellion, or suppress evidence in a legal case. The word carries a sense of active restraint or inhibition, often involving authority or internal effort. It can also refer to reducing or stopping a physical or biological process, such as suppressing an immune response.

Example

  • The government used military force to suppress the protest.

  • She tried to suppress her laughter during the serious ceremony.

  • The new medication helps suppress the symptoms of the disease.

  • He could not suppress his anger any longer and shouted at his boss.

  • The company was accused of trying to suppress negative reviews online.

  • The dictator suppressed all opposition newspapers.

  • She suppressed a sigh of relief when the exam was over.

  • The police were ordered to suppress the riot immediately.

  • Certain plants can suppress the growth of weeds in a garden.

  • He suppressed the urge to check his phone during the movie.

Synonyms

quash
subdue
stifle
repress
inhibit

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