Langimage
English

suppresses

|sup-press-es|

B2

/səˈprɛs/

(suppress)

stopping forcefully

Base FormPlural3rd Person Sing.PastPast ParticiplePresent ParticipleNounNounAdjectiveAdjectiveAdverb
suppresssuppressionssuppressessuppressedsuppressedsuppressingsuppressionsuppressorsuppressivesuppressiblesuppressively
Etymology
Etymology Information

'suppress' originates from Latin, specifically the verb 'suppressus' (past participle of 'supprimere'), where 'sub-' (later assimilated to 'sup-') meant 'under' and 'premere' meant 'to press'.

Historical Evolution

'suppress' came into English via Old French/Latin influence: Latin 'supprimere' ('to press down') → Old French 'supprimer' → Middle English forms such as 'suppressen' and eventually modern English 'suppress'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to press down (physically)', but over time it evolved to the broader meanings of 'put down, stop, or hold back' (including ending rebellions, hiding information, or restraining emotions).

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

third-person singular present form of 'suppress'.

She suppresses her anger when she speaks to clients.

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Antonyms

Verb 2

prevents or puts an end to something (often by force or authority), e.g., suppresses a rebellion or a protest.

The government suppresses protests that it views as a threat to public order.

Synonyms

quashescrushesrepresses

Antonyms

Verb 3

keeps information, feelings, or evidence from being known or expressed (to prevent publication or disclosure).

The company suppresses internal reports that would harm its reputation.

Synonyms

Antonyms

disclosespublishesreveals

Verb 4

reduces or restrains a natural function or reaction (e.g., suppresses appetite, coughs, or symptoms).

This medication suppresses the appetite and can lead to weight loss.

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Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/12/02 11:29