Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

stifle

[stahy-fuhl] / ˈstaɪ fəl /
VERB
prevent, restrain
Synonyms
STRONGEST
curb muzzle repress silence smother squelch strangle suffocate suppress
STRONG
asphyxiate burke check choke constipate cork extinguish gag hush kill muffle spike squash stagnate stop stultify torpedo trammel
WEAK
black out bring to screeching halt choke back clam up clamp down cover up crack down dry up hold it down hush up put the lid on shut up sit on
Antonyms
STRONGEST
allow encourage free let go loose release
STRONG
aid assist bear begin create help start
WEAK
persuade

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

All of which arguably stifle the abandon, or even the havoc, that is often characteristic of the world's biggest cities.

From BBC • Mar. 7, 2026

Business and technology groups have opposed the bill, arguing that the new regulations and the right to sue would stifle investment in AI-powered learning tools.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 22, 2026

Rosenior's switch to a three-man central defence allowed Chelsea to stifle Arsenal in a scrappy first half.

From Barron's • Feb. 3, 2026

Lin posited that Silicon Valley’s resource abundance could stifle development in more efficient architecture.

From MarketWatch • Jan. 24, 2026

“It’s just that . . .” and I was trying hard to stifle my giggles, but one of them escaped through my nose with a snort, which made me laugh more.

From "The Joy Luck Club" by Amy Tan

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.