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

Minnesota's smothering defence was again enough to win the game though, with Brian Flores' unit starring in their four-game winning streak to end the season in positive fashion.

From BBC • Dec. 26, 2025

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

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 18, 2025

For the first time, Lawrence heard a physicist with a solid grasp of subatomic behavior express support for his idea rather than smothering it in quibbles.

From "Big Science" by Michael Hiltzik