asphyxiate

American  

[as-fik-see-eyt] / æsˈfɪk siˌeɪt /

verb (used with object)

asphyxiated, asphyxiating

1. to produce asphyxia in.

2. to cause to die or lose consciousness by impairing normal breathing, as by gas or other noxious agents; choke; suffocate; smother.

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verb (used without object)

asphyxiated, asphyxiating

1. to become asphyxiated.

asphyxiate British  

/ æsˈfɪksɪˌeɪt /

verb

1. to cause asphyxia in or undergo asphyxia; smother; suffocate

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Other Word Forms

• asphyxiation noun
• asphyxiator noun

Etymology

Origin of asphyxiate

First recorded in 1830–40; asphyxi(a) + -ate ¹

Example Sentences

This stops the stress hormone and lactic acid buildup that can hurt flavor and texture when fish are left to asphyxiate.

From Los Angeles Times

Victor had been dealing with breathing issues, and she wonders whether the heavy smoke might have asphyxiated him.

From Los Angeles Times

She and others worry that it could be even trickier with CO2 — an odorless, asphyxiating gas.

From Los Angeles Times

Gas stoves emit a variety of pollutants, including asphyxiating carbon monoxide, cancer-causing formaldehyde and benzene.

From Los Angeles Times

Environmentalists also say that the transportation and injection of CO2 — an asphyxiating gas that displaces oxygen — could lead to dangerous leaks.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• suffocate