Definition

Causing a feeling of being unable to breathe easily or feeling restricted; often used to describe oppressive heat or an environment that limits freedom or expression.

Example

The stifling heat made it hard to concentrate during the meeting.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

I felt like the air was so stifling in that room during the meeting.

Yeah, it was hard to concentrate with all those people packed in there.

I wish they would open a window or something to let some fresh air in.

Definitely! It makes everything feel more relaxed when the air isn't so stifling.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Stifling → It is formed from "stifle" (from Old English *stiflan*, meaning to suffocate or choke) and the suffix "-ing" (indicating the action or process of). The word "stifling" refers to the action of suffocating or making it difficult to breathe, often due to heat or lack of air.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old English word for suffocating ('stifle') and remember that 'stifling' describes the action of making it hard to breathe.

Visually Confused Words