smother
UK[ˈsmʌðə(r)]US[ˈsmʌðər]
v
to kill someone by covering their face so that they cannot breathe
v
to cover something thickly or to cover the surface of something
v
to stop a feeling or reaction from being expressed or continuing
Etymology
the word 'smother' originates from the old english 'smorian', meaning to suffocate or choke. it is related to middle low german 'smoren' and dutch 'smoren', sharing a common germanic root. the core concept has consistently involved the suppression of air, fire, or expression through covering or stifling. its modern meanings, extending from literal suffocation to the metaphorical suppression of feelings or actions, retain this fundamental sense of oppressive concealment.
Analysis
this word is a tight germanic root and is not productively formed from separable modern english morphemes.
Examples
the killer tried to smother the victim with a pillow.
she smothered her baked potatoes in sour cream and chives.
he smothered a laugh during the serious meeting.