# suffocate

**Pronunciation:** /ˈsʌfəkeɪt/ · SUF-uh-kayt

**CEFR level:** B2

**Part of speech:** verb

## Meaning

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.

## Synonyms

- choke — Focuses on the physical obstruction in the throat.
- smother — To kill by covering the nose and mouth.
- asphyxiate — A formal, medical term for oxygen deprivation.
- stifle — Often used figuratively for suppressing emotions or ideas.

## Common patterns

- suffocate from — To die due to a specific cause of oxygen loss. — The trapped miners risked suffocating from the lack of ventilation.
- suffocate someone — To cause someone to die by blocking their air. — The murderer attempted to suffocate the victim with a pillow.

Canonical URL: https://anaversity.com/dictionary/english/suffocated

[Browse the English learner dictionary](https://anaversity.com/dictionary/english)