inhibit

pronunciation

How to pronounce inhibit in British English: UK [ɪnˈhɪbɪt] word uk audio image

How to pronounce inhibit in American English: US [ɪnˈhɪbɪt] word us audio image

Verb:

to put down by force or authority
limit the range or extent of

Word Origin

inhibit (v.): early 15c., "to forbid, prohibit," back-formation from inhibition or else from Latin inhibitus, past participle of inhibere "to hold in, hold back, keep back" (see inhibition). Psychological sense (1876) is from earlier, softened meaning of "restrain, check, hinder" (1530s). Related: Inhibited; inhibiting.

Synonym

v.

taboo prohibit obstruct forbid disallow ban bar prevent veto proscribe interdict

v.

arrest constrict restrain impede compel holdback control restrict check abort interfere smother constrain stop cramp curb hinder coerce obstruct suppress gag govern repress

Example

1. The polyphenols in chocolate inhibit oxidation of ldl cholesterol .

2. Many observers fear the verdict will inhibit public discussion of scientific risks .

3. Their response contradicts the popular notion that fakes inhibit innovation and investment .

4. Most berries contain ellagic acid and other polyphenol antioxidants that inhibit tumor growth .

5. The government 's instinct for centralised control continues to inhibit enterprise and depress growth .

more: >How to Use "inhibit" with Example Sentences