Suppress
/səˈprɛs/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo forcibly put an end to; to prevent the development, action, or expression of something.
/səˈprɛs/
To forcibly put an end to.
The authorities suppressed the protest with tear gas.
💡 Simply: Imagine a lid on a pot of boiling water. If you push it down hard, you're suppressing the steam from escaping! It's about stopping something from happening or growing.
👶 For kids: To stop something from happening or growing, like putting a lid on a pot so the steam doesn't come out.
More Examples
The body suppresses the immune system during pregnancy.
He suppressed a yawn during the boring lecture.
How It's Used
"The government suppressed the rebellion with brutal force."
"Police were deployed to suppress the rioters."
To restrain or conceal (a feeling or reaction).
/səˈprɛs/
To restrain oneself.
She suppressed her laughter during the serious meeting.
💡 Simply: Ever tried to hide a giggle when someone tells a bad joke? You were suppressing your laughter! It’s like holding back an emotion or feeling.
👶 For kids: To try not to show a feeling, like trying not to cry when you're sad.
More Examples
He suppressed the urge to shout at the rude customer.
The therapy helped him suppress his negative thoughts.
How It's Used
"She suppressed her anger and walked away."
"He suppressed a smile when he heard the news."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
suppress the urge
To control or resist a strong desire or impulse.
"He suppressed the urge to eat the entire cake."
From Latin *supprimere* ('to press down, restrain'), from *sub* ('under') + *premere* ('to press').
The word 'suppress' has been used since the 16th century, initially referring to physical restraint before extending to emotional control and political action.
Memory tip
Think of a heavy weight (like a press) pushing something down and stopping it.
Word Origin
"To press down, to restrain"