Definition

A strong and often oppressive control or influence over someone or something, similar to a stranglehold.

Example

The company's throttlehold on the market made it difficult for new competitors to enter.

Conversation

Have you noticed how some companies have a real throttlehold on their markets?

Yeah, it's like they control everything and make it hard for new businesses to compete.

Exactly! That kind of control can be really stifling for innovation.

True, it can prevent fresh ideas from coming to light.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Throttlehold → It is formed from "throttle" (from Old English *þrotl*, meaning to strangle or choke) and "hold" (from Old English *healdan*, meaning to keep or grasp). The word "throttlehold" refers to a grip that restricts or chokes, often used in a figurative sense to describe control or dominance over someone or something.

Memory Tip

Imagine a grip that 'chokes' ('throttle') and 'keeps' ('hold') something tightly — that's why a throttlehold means a strong, controlling grip.

Visually Confused Words