choking

[ choh-king ]

adjective

1. (of the voice) husky and strained, especially because of emotion.
2. causing the feeling of being choked:

   a choking cloud of smoke.

Other Word Forms

• choking·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of choking¹

choke + -ing ²

Example Sentences

The younger son fired a warning shot with a shotgun, but the choking continued.

From Los Angeles Times

Across various cities and towns, the majority of businesses were shuttered and streets were left emptied of the usual bustle of street vendors and choking traffic.

From BBC

Stupid me, thinking they’d overcome their penchant for choking when they won the World Series last season.

From Los Angeles Times

“Plaintiff did the best she could to protect herself as she sobbed and pleaded until Tate climaxed and stopped beating and choking her.”

From Los Angeles Times

The state found Capri in the Desert had also failed to follow its own policy about promptly calling 911 during the choking incident.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• airtight
• fast
• short
• uncomfortable