smother
|smoth/er|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈsmʌðər/
🇬🇧
/ˈsmʌðə/
suffocate or cover
Etymology
Etymology Information
'smother' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'smorren,' where 'smor-' meant 'to suffocate.'
Historical Evolution
'smorren' transformed into the modern English word 'smother' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to suffocate,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to kill someone by covering their nose and mouth so that they suffocate.
The villain tried to smother the hero with a pillow.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 2
to cover something completely, often to the point of suffocation or suppression.
The cake was smothered in chocolate sauce.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35