verb present participle of the verb 'stifle', meaning to suffocate or suppress
adjective causing difficulty in breathing; suffocating
The stifling atmosphere in the novel created a sense of claustrophobia for the characters.
The stifling effect of past trauma can hinder a person's ability to move forward in life.
The stifling heat of the summer made it difficult to go outside.
The stifling feeling of anxiety overwhelmed her as she entered the crowded room.
The stifling conditions caused by greenhouse gases are a major concern for environmentalists.
The stifling rules and regulations imposed by the government limited people's freedom.
In the world of writing, stifling can refer to the feeling of being creatively blocked or constrained by external factors such as deadlines or censorship.
Psychologists may use the term stifling to describe a situation where a person's emotional expression is being suppressed or inhibited, leading to feelings of frustration or stagnation.
Teachers may use the term stifling to describe a classroom environment that is overly restrictive or oppressive, hindering students' ability to learn and express themselves freely.
Engineers may use the term stifling to describe a situation where innovation and creativity are limited by strict regulations or outdated processes, preventing them from exploring new ideas or solutions.