Definition

The act of preventing someone from breathing, which can lead to death or unconsciousness due to lack of oxygen.

Example

The firefighters acted quickly to prevent suffocation in the smoke-filled room.

Conversation

I read a really interesting article about suffocation yesterday.

That sounds intense! What was it about?

It explained how some accidents can lead to suffocation without people realizing it.

Wow, that's kind of scary! We should be more aware of those risks.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Suffocation → It is formed from "suffocare" (from Latin, meaning to choke or stifle) and the suffix "-tion" (meaning the action or process of). The word "suffocation" refers to the process of choking or being stifled, particularly in relation to breathing.

Memory Tip

Think of the Latin word "suffocare" which means to choke, and remember that suffocation is the process of choking or being unable to breathe.

Visually Confused Words