Suffocate

Verb

Definition: To cause or have difficulty in breathing, especially due to lack of air.

Synonyms: Choke, Smother, Stifle, Strangle

Antonyms: Breathe, Oxygenate

Examples:

The smoke from the fire suffocated the room, making it hard to breathe.
His anxiety felt suffocating, as if it were blocking his airway.

Mnemonics:

Think of a person being smothered with a pillow, causing them to suffocate.
Imagine being trapped in a small, airtight space, unable to breathe properly.

Etymology:

Origin:

Late Middle English (in the sense "die of suffocation"): from Latin suffocat- 'suffocated', from the verb suffocare, from sub- 'from below' + fauces 'throat'.

Historical Usage:

The word has been used since the late Middle English period and has retained its meaning of causing difficulty in breathing.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Suffocating under pressure"

Explanation:

Feeling overwhelmed or trapped in a situation that is causing extreme stress or difficulty.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing 'suffocate' with 'strangulate'.

Explanation:

While both words involve difficulty in breathing, 'suffocate' refers to the restriction of air, while 'strangulate' specifically involves constricting the neck or windpipe.