suppress

To stop an activity or process, or prevent it from developing.

• The army suppressed the rebellion.
• The drug suppresses activity in the immune system.
• Fire crews worked all night to suppress the flames.

Similar words: stop, put down, quell

Common phrases: suppress a rebellion, suppress unrest, suppress something completely, suppress dissent

To prevent information from being published, shared, or accepted as true.

• They tried to suppress the report.
• The company suppressed evidence of unsafe working conditions.
• Why were the study’s findings suppressed?

Similar words: conceal, withhold, censor

Opposites: reveal, publish

Common phrases: suppress evidence, suppress a report, suppress the truth

To stop yourself from showing a feeling, making a sound, or reacting.

• She suppressed a smile.
• He tried to suppress his anger.
• I could barely suppress the urge to laugh.

Similar words: hold back, restrain, repress

Opposites: express

Common phrases: suppress a smile, suppress laughter, suppress an urge