sofocar

to stifle

verb soh-foh-KAHR Rare

Also means

to suppress

Usage Note

Sofocar means to smother or stifle, both literally (a fire, a person) and figuratively (a revolt, emotions). The reflexive sofocarse means to get flustered or overheated. The related noun sofoco describes a hot flush or a moment of embarrassment.

Examples

"Intentaron sofocar el incendio rápidamente."

Natural Translation

They tried to stifle the fire quickly.

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