Suppression
səˈprɛʃən
Definitions
2 meaningsThe act of forcibly putting an end to something; the act of withholding from disclosure or publication.
səˈprɛʃən
The act of stopping something from being seen or expressed
The company was accused of price suppression.
💡 Simply: Think of trying to keep a lid on something, like a secret or a feeling. Suppression is when you're really trying hard to stop something from coming out. It's like holding your breath to hide a giggle.
👶 For kids: When you try to stop something from happening, like stopping a yawn or stopping people from talking.
More Examples
The government faced international condemnation for its suppression of human rights.
The suppression of emotions can be unhealthy.
How It's Used
"The government's suppression of dissent led to widespread protests."
"Suppression of traumatic memories can have long-term psychological effects."
"The gene suppression technique is used in various biological experiments."
The act of putting an end to something by force.
səˈprɛʃən
The act of ending something, often by force.
The rebels were unable to withstand the government's suppression.
💡 Simply: Suppression is when you stop something from happening, like putting out a fire or ending a rebellion. It's when you use force to keep something under control.
👶 For kids: Making something stop, like stopping a fire or stopping a fight.
More Examples
Fire suppression systems are crucial in preventing the spread of blazes.
How It's Used
"Enemy fire suppression allowed our troops to advance."
"Immunosuppression is sometimes used to treat autoimmune diseases."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
Freedom of expression
The right to express one's opinions without censorship or fear of reprisal.
"The constitution guarantees freedom of expression."
From Latin *suppressio*, from *supprimere* 'to press down, restrain', from *sub-* 'under' + *premere* 'to press'. The word has been in English since the 16th century.
The word's use grew in the 20th century, especially relating to political and social control, and scientific applications.
Memory tip
Imagine a strong hand pressing down on something that wants to come up. That's suppression!