asphyxiate

[as-fik-see-eyt]

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.

verb (used without object)

asphyxiated, asphyxiating 

1. to become asphyxiated.

asphyxiate

/ æsˈfɪksɪˌeɪt /

verb

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

Other Word Forms

• asphyxiator noun
• asphyxiation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of asphyxiate¹

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

That, in turn, causes them to “asphyxiate because their diaphragm has too much pressure on it.”

From Los Angeles Times

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

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• suffocate