inhibit — to prevent something from growing, developing, or functioning properly
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to prevent something from growing, developing, or functioning properly
Pronunciation (IPA): /ɪnˈhɪbɪt/
Example Sentences
- Too much caffeine can inhibit your sleep, turning you into a zombie.
- Fear of failure often inhibits people from pursuing their dreams.
- The strict dress code inhibits students' self-expression more than a tight corset.
inhibit
VERB[/ɪnˈhɪbɪt/]
to prevent something from growing, developing, or functioning properly

The strict referee's whistle inhibits the players from celebrating too wildly on the field.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'inhibere', composed of 'in-' (in, against) and 'habere' (to have, to hold). The word entered English via Old French, originally meaning 'to restrain' or 'to hold back'.
Breakdown
in- (in, against) + hibit (from Latin habere, to hold) + -it (verb form) = inhibit (to hold back or prevent)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“Too much caffeine can inhibit your sleep, turning you into a zombie.”
“Fear of failure often inhibits people from pursuing their dreams.”
“The strict dress code inhibits students' self-expression more than a tight corset.”
“Certain medications can inhibit the absorption of nutrients.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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