suppressors
|sup-press-ors|
🇺🇸
/səˈprɛsɚ/
🇬🇧
/səˈprɛsə/
(suppressor)
device or gene that suppresses
Etymology
'suppressor' originates from Latin, specifically the verb 'supprimere' (from 'sub-' + 'premere'), where 'sub-' meant 'under' and 'premere' meant 'to press'; English formed 'suppress' and added the agent suffix '-or' to make 'suppressor'.
'supprimere' in Latin produced Medieval/Old French forms such as 'supprimer', entered Middle English as 'suppress', and the agent noun form 'suppressor' developed in Modern English.
Initially related to the idea 'to press down' or 'press under', the sense shifted toward 'hold back, restrain, or put an end to'—the modern meanings (device that reduces noise; one that inhibits) reflect this evolution.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a device attached to the muzzle of a firearm that reduces the noise and muzzle flash produced when the gun is fired (also called a silencer).
Many countries regulate the sale and ownership of suppressors.
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Noun 2
in genetics or molecular biology, a gene or protein that reduces or inhibits the effect or expression of another gene (e.g., tumor suppressor).
Mutations in certain tumor suppressors can lead to uncontrolled cell growth.
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Noun 3
something or someone that restrains, restrains expression, or reduces intensity (general use).
Community suppressors helped reduce late-night disturbances in the neighborhood.
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Last updated: 2025/11/01 21:14