stifle
verb (used with object)
to quell, crush, or end by force: to stifle free expression.
is stifling
-
present progressiveof stifle (3rd person singular).present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate present.
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.
Cutting the red tape that is stifling the economy could help.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 28, 2026
In the gym, electrical wires snake across the floor to each family's cardboard home, but there is no running water and the heat under the zinc roof is stifling.
From Barron's ● Jun. 17, 2026
Nikki wants to write full-time and believes that a lack of love in her life is stifling her manuscript.
From Salon ● Jun. 4, 2026
That Eagles defense is stifling, and Saquon Barkley is an MVP candidate.
From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 5, 2024
The shed is stifling suddenly, hot and close, and I’m across the floor and out the door.
From "An Ember in the Ashes" by Sabaa Tahir
