# stifling

/ˈstaɪfəɫɪŋ/ (US) · /stˈaɪflɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/stifling
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

making you feel very uncomfortable because it is too hot, too crowded, or too strict. You use this to describe a situation where you cannot breathe or move freely.

For teachers: causing a feeling of extreme discomfort due to heat, humidity, or lack of space. Often used to describe environments that are overly formal or restrictive to personal freedom.

## Examples

- The room was stifling because the air conditioning was broken.
- The office environment became stifling after the new manager introduced a strict dress code and constant surveillance.
- The stifling atmosphere of the Victorian drawing room, with its heavy velvet drapes and lack of natural light, made it difficult for the guests to feel at ease.

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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.