suffocate (B2)

verb

Pronunciation: /ˈsʌfəkeɪt/

Definition

Die or suffer from a lack of oxygen due to an obstructed airway or an atmosphere lacking breathable air.

Examples

• The tight scarf around his neck made him feel like he was starting to suffocate.

• Many victims of the building fire suffocated before they could reach the emergency exit.

• The thick plastic bag posed a serious risk of suffocating the toddler if left within reach.

How to Use suffocate

suffocate from (prepositional phrase)

To die due to a specific cause of oxygen loss. — "The trapped miners risked suffocating from the lack of ventilation."

suffocate someone (collocation)

To cause someone to die by blocking their air. — "The murderer attempted to suffocate the victim with a pillow."

Synonyms of suffocate

Words with a similar meaning to suffocate:

• choke
• smother
• asphyxiate
• stifle

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