repression
UK[rɪˈprɛʃn]US[rɪˈprɛʃn]
n
The act of using force or authority to control people and prevent them from protesting or rebelling.
n
The process of subduing unacceptable desires or memories in the unconscious mind.
Morpheme Breakdown
re
press
ion
re
again, back
press
press
ion
noun suffix
Etymology
The word 'repression' has its roots in the Latin verb premere, meaning "to press". Combined with the intensive prefix re- ("back" or "again"), it formed the Latin reprimere ("to press back, check, restrain"). This concept entered English via Old French repression in the late 14th century, initially carrying the literal sense of "act of pressing back". Over time, the physical meaning faded, and the term evolved to describe the metaphorical action of subduing or holding down, whether political forces or psychological impulses. The modern abstract meanings in both sociology and psychology retain this core logic of forcefully keeping something back or under control.
Analysis
Structure: re (again, back) + press (press) + ion (noun suffix)
- re: Latin origin, a prefix meaning "again" or "back".
- press: Latin origin (from premere, "to press"), acting as the core root.
- ion: Latin suffix (via Old French), forming nouns of action or state.
Examples
The regime was accused of brutal political repression.
Repression of traumatic memories can lead to psychological issues.
The protest was a reaction to years of social and cultural repression.