Suppress Meaning and Definition
Suppress
Pronunciation
/səˈprɛs/
Part of Speech
Verb
Definition
To restrain or hold back a feeling, thought, or action; to prevent or inhibit something from being expressed or shown.
Examples
- She tried to suppress a smile when her friend told a joke.
- The government attempted to suppress the news of the scandal.
Synonyms
- Repress
- Conceal
- Hush
Antonyms
- Express
- Reveal
- Unleash
Additional Information
Suppressing emotions or thoughts can lead to mental health issues if not addressed. It is essential to find healthy ways to express oneself. In a social context, suppressing information can lead to mistrust and resentment. Suppression can also refer to the act of putting an end to something, such as suppressing a rebellion.
In a psychological context, suppression is a defense mechanism used to cope with anxiety, fear, or other uncomfortable emotions. It involves pushing unwanted thoughts or feelings into the unconscious mind, making it difficult to access or recall them.
The word “suppress” comes from the Latin “suppressus,” meaning “to press down” or “to hold under.” It has evolved to encompass various meanings, including restraint, inhibition, and concealment.
Usage Notes
Use “suppress” in a sentence when describing the restraint of emotions, thoughts, or actions. Be mindful of the context, as “suppress” can have different connotations depending on the situation.
Cultural References
The concept of suppression is explored in various forms of literature and art, such as George Orwell’s “1984” and Philip K. Dick’s “A Scanner Darkly.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Suppress a smile
- Suppress a giggle
Related Words or Phrases
- Repression
- Concealment
- Inhibition
Collocations
- Suppress emotions
- Suppress information
- Suppress feelings
Frequency of Use
The word “suppress” is moderately frequent in modern language, often used in everyday conversations and written content.
Common Misspellings
- Supress
- Suppres
- Supresss