Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Mud had smothered a koi pond on the woman’s property, likely killing the fish, but two of four turtles were found alive.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 28, 2025

The pardon was based on the interim recommendations of a state inquiry into new scientific evidence that created reasonable doubt that Folbigg had smothered her children, as prosecutors had alleged at her trial.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 8, 2023

Debt had smothered the country for more than half a century.

From New York Times • May 20, 2022

I had smothered pork chops, cracklin’ bread, dressing, chess pie.

From Washington Post • Sep. 19, 2016

It reminded him of his helplessness in the House of Hades - the way Clytius had smothered him in darkness, snuffing out his fire, possessing his voice.

From "Blood of Olympus" by Rick Riordan