suppression

noun

sup·​pres·​sion sə-ˈpre-shən How to pronounce suppression (audio)
Synonyms of suppressionnext
1
: an act or instance of suppressing : the state of being suppressed
2
: the conscious intentional exclusion from consciousness of a thought or feeling

Synonyms of suppression

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Examples of suppression in a Sentence

learned that suppression of her angry feelings didn't necessarily make them go away
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The availability of technical expertise is particularly important because remediation can involve complex engineering work, from designing fire alarm systems to assessing building structures and installing fire suppression equipment. — Mayu Saini, Footwear News, 9 Oct. 2026 Despite the massive suppression of leftwing parties, the social democrats lost only one seat. — Literary Hub, 9 Oct. 2026 Firefighters searched inside the home to confirm there was no one inside and initiated fire suppression efforts. — CBS News, 8 Oct. 2026 He was acquitted of criminal voter suppression charges but faced fines and civil damages associated with federal law. — ABC News, 7 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for suppression

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of suppression was in the 15th century

Rhymes for suppression

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Browse Nearby Words

suppressible
suppression
suppressio veri
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Cite this Entry

“Suppression.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/suppression. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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Medical Definition

suppression

noun
sup·​pres·​sion sə-ˈpresh-ən How to pronounce suppression (audio)
: an act or instance of suppressing: as
a
: stoppage of a bodily function or a symptom
suppression of urine secretion
suppression of a cough
b
: the failure of development of a bodily part or organ
c
: the conscious intentional exclusion from consciousness of a thought or feeling compare repression sense 2a
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