smothering

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.

Earlier this month, the United States voiced unease after Israel bombed fuel depots around Tehran, smothering the city of 10 million people with toxic black smoke.

From Barron's • Mar. 19, 2026

Seattle’s smothering defense preventing New England from ever getting on track in the game at Levi Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., was more appreciated by serious football fans than casual watchers.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 10, 2026

This makes him susceptible to conceding from quickly taken shots, but his approach is fairly successful in smothering chances, especially given how wide he spreads himself and the use of his feet to make saves.

From BBC • Sep. 2, 2025

Florida is also capable of frustrating opponents with a smothering defense.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 18, 2025

Fighting drowsiness caused by the smothering heat, my thoughts race from one subject to another.

From "First They Killed My Father: A Daughter of Cambodia Remembers" by Loung Ung