Suffocate
/ˈsʌf.ə.keɪt/noun
To cause someone to be unable to breathe, leading to unconsciousness or death.
Did you know?The term links back to ancient rituals where smoke was used in sacrifices, often leading to a choking sensation before death—a dark hint of its lethal power.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
suffocare
“to choke, smother, or stifle.”
Old French
Old French
suffoquer
“to stifle or suffocate.”
Middle English
Middle English
suffocate
“to suffocate, choke.”
Modern English
English
suffocate
“to prevent someone from breathing, leading to a lack of air.”