stifle /ˈstaɪfəl/ CET6+ TEM4 ( stifling, stifled, stifles )

• 1. 

  V-T If someone stifles something you consider to be a good thing, they prevent it from continuing. 压制 [表不满]

  例：

  Regulations on children stifled creativity.

  对孩子们制定的各种规定压制了创造力。

• 2. 

  V-T If you stifle a yawn or laugh, you prevent yourself from yawning or laughing. 忍住 (呵欠或笑声)

  例：

  She makes no attempt to stifle a yawn.

  她并未试图忍住一个哈欠。

• 3. 

  V-T If you stifle your natural feelings or behaviour, you prevent yourself from having those feelings or behaving in that way. 控制 (感情或行为)

  例：

  It is best to stifle curiosity and leave birds' nests alone.

  最好忍住好奇心，别碰鸟巢。