Suppress
mediumNegative tonesuh-PRESS
verb
Definition
to subdue, restrain, or keep from being expressed
Memory hook
SUPPRESS: 'SUB' (down) + 'PRESS' — you PRESS something DOWN hard, like a hand clamped over a mouth to muffle a shout.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The regime moved swiftly to suppress every hint of dissent.”
“She struggled to suppress a laugh during the solemn ceremony.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The regime moved swiftly to ______ every hint of dissent.”
Show answer
suppress
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Suppress is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "stifle" or "quell" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "encourage".
Related GRE Words
antipathy
a deep, settled feeling of dislike or aversion
appease
To pacify or placate someone by acceding to their demands
belligerent
Hostile and aggressive; engaged in war or conflict
check
(verb) To restrain or control; to stop the progress of
discord
Disagreement between people; lack of harmony
discordant
clashing or disagreeing; harsh and inharmonious
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