# stifle

/ˈstaɪfəɫ/ (US) · /stˈaɪfəl/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/stifle
Updated: 2026-05-29

## Definition

to stop something from growing or developing by putting pressure on it. It is an old word that people rarely use today.

For teachers: to suppress or hinder the growth, development, or expression of something. Archaic in modern usage, though it persists in specific historical or literary contexts.

## Examples

- The heavy rain tried to stifle the young plants.
- The strict rules of the old school were designed to stifle any form of student creativity or independent thought.
- The rapid industrialization of the region threatened to stifle the traditional crafts that had defined the local economy for centuries, forcing artisans to either adapt or abandon their trade.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.