choke back

verb

1. tr, adverb to suppress (anger, tears, etc)

Idioms and Phrases

Suppress, as in He choked back his tears . [Late 1800s]

Example Sentences

Barrett’s voice was tightly coiled, as though he was choking back the indignation roiling inside him.

From Los Angeles Times

A South L.A. woman choking back tears said she had been living in her car for 18 months with her family and dog because she had no money.

From Los Angeles Times

“It’s the least I can do for them letting me stay with them and get better,” Coburn said, choking back tears.

From Los Angeles Times

As the singer made her way from the audience to the stage, Gerwig seemed to be choking back both laughter and tears.

From Seattle Times

"I hate the way I don't hate you," says Stiles, choking back tears.

From BBC

Related Words

• confine
• constrain
• curb
• curtail
• detain
• deter
• govern
• hamper
• hinder
• inhibit
• keep down
• kill
• limit
• prevent
• repress
• restrict
• subdue
• suppress