Definitions

1. verb

to suppress or hinder the growth or development of something

“The new law was enacted to stifle the rise of organized crime.”

2. verb

to oppress or suppress the expression of someone’s feelings, thoughts, or opinions

“Her creativity was stifled by the strict rules of the school.”

3. noun

a feeling of suffocation or a sense of being overwhelmed

“The stifling heat made it hard to breathe.”

4. noun

a feeling of being unable to express one’s thoughts or emotions

“She felt a stifling sense of frustration after being silenced by her teacher.”