repress

verb /rɪˈpres/

Origin

From Latin "repressus," past participle of "reprimere," meaning "to hold back" or "to restrain."

Meanings

1. To suppress or quell (a thought, feeling, or desire)
2. To put down by force, especially to subdue or quash (a revolt or rebellion)
3. To prevent the expression or realization of (a desire or impulse)

Example Sentences

1. She tried to repress her anger during the heated argument.
2. The government used military force to repress the uprising.
3. He repressed his urge to laugh at the inappropriate joke.

Related Words

• Nouns: repression, repressor
• Adjective: repressive
• Adverb: repressively

Synonyms: suppress, subdue, quash, stifle, restrain, inhibit

Memorization Trick

Think of "re-press" as pressing something down again and again to keep it from rising up. This imagery aligns with the idea of suppressing or holding back emotions, thoughts, or actions.