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.

Georgia had stomped everything in its path behind a defense that was smothering opponents at an historically stingy pace before Bryce Young and the Tide picked the Bulldogs apart 41-24 in Atlanta.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 9, 2022

Justin Herbert remained poised and productive, and the Chargers’ defense was smothering against the Las Vegas Raiders.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 6, 2021

Then we woke up with its thick, hot smoke upon us and realized it was smothering our lives.

From Salon • Sep. 12, 2020

The defense was smothering in holding a Top 5-ranked offense to 172 yards.

From US News • Oct. 19, 2014

Some expressed concern that an emphasis on rote learning was smothering creative thinking and intellectual risk-taking.

From "Drama High" by Michael Sokolove