sti ‧ fle /ˈstaɪf ə l/ BrE AmE verb
[ Date: 1300-1400 ; Origin: Probably from Old French estouffer 'to stifle' ]
1 . [transitive] to stop something from happening or developing OPP encourage :
rules and regulations that stifle innovation
How can this party stifle debate on such a crucial issue?
2 . [transitive] to stop a feeling from being expressed:
He stifled an urge to hit her.
stifle a yawn/smile/grin etc
I tried to stifle my laughter.
3 . [intransitive, transitive usually passive] if you are stifled by something, it stops you breathing comfortably ⇨ suffocate :
He was almost stifled by the fumes.