suppress

[suh-pres] / səˈprɛs /

VERB

restrain, hold in check

Synonyms

STRONGEST

abolish censor conceal contain cover up crack down on crush curb cut off muzzle overcome overthrow put an end to put down quash quell quench repress silence snuff out stamp out stifle subdue withhold

STRONG

annihilate bottle burke check clamp conquer extinguish interrupt muffle overpower shush smother spike squash stop trample

WEAK

beat down bring to naught hold back hold down hold in keep in keep secret put kibosh on put lid on sit on

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aid allow assist build up compliment encourage give in help let go permit praise release sanction start support surrender yield

STRONG

light open

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.

This complex acts to selectively suppress mRNAs that contain non-optimal codons, effectively reducing the production of inefficient genetic messages.

From Science Daily • Apr. 9, 2026

And even if they are technologically successful, they can only be successful financially if they suppress competition and the economy copes with macro disturbances well.

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

Former Air Force officials say that the fact that such an incident hasn’t happened until now underscores the successful U.S. efforts to suppress Iran’s air defenses early in the war.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

Fire officials have requested additional resources, but were trying to suppress the flames with two air tankers, 23 fire engines, two helicopters and two bulldozers, a spokesperson said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

The Butler could hardly prevent himself from opening his mouth in surprise, but managed to suppress the question, or the protest.

From "The Golden Compass" by Philip Pullman

Vocabulary lists containing suppress

The Giver

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Animal Farm

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The Maze Runner

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