asphyxiate

[ as-fik-see-eyt ]

verb (used with object)

, as·phyx·i·at·ed, as·phyx·i·at·ing.

1. to produce asphyxia in.
2. to cause to die or lose consciousness by impairing normal breathing, as by gas or other noxious agents; choke; suffocate; smother.

verb (used without object)

, as·phyx·i·at·ed, as·phyx·i·at·ing.

1. to become asphyxiated.

asphyxiate

/ æsˈfɪksɪˌeɪt /

verb

1. to cause asphyxia in or undergo asphyxia; smother; suffocate

Derived Forms

• asˈphyxiˌator, noun
• asˌphyxiˈation, noun

Other Words From

• as·phyx·i·a·tion [as-fik-see-, ey, -sh, uh, n] noun
• as·phyx·i·a·tor noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of asphyxiate¹

First recorded in 1830–40; asphyxi(a) + -ate ¹

Example Sentences

She and others worry that it could be even trickier with CO2 — an odorless, asphyxiating gas.

From Los Angeles Times

That, in turn, causes them to “asphyxiate because their diaphragm has too much pressure on it.”

From Los Angeles Times

Gas stoves emit a variety of pollutants, including asphyxiating carbon monoxide, cancer-causing formaldehyde and benzene.

From Los Angeles Times

At least three inmates died after stuffing paper, sanitary napkins or other items down their throats, asphyxiating before anyone intervened.

From Los Angeles Times

More than 75,000 people have been arrested under the policy in just under two years, but entire communities have been freed from an asphyxiating degree of gang control.

From BBC

Related Words

• suffocate