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View synonyms for inhibit

inhibit

[ in-hib-it ]

verb (used with object)

  1. to restrain, hinder, arrest, or check (an action, impulse, etc.).

    Synonyms: obstruct, discourage, repress

  2. to prohibit; forbid.

    Synonyms: interdict

  3. Psychology. to consciously or unconsciously suppress or restrain (psychologically or sociologically unacceptable behavior).
  4. Chemistry. to decrease the rate of action of or stop (a chemical reaction).


inhibit

/ ɪnˈhɪbɪt /

verb

  1. to restrain or hinder (an impulse, a desire, etc)
  2. to prohibit; forbid
  3. to stop, prevent, or decrease the rate of (a chemical reaction)
  4. electronics
    1. to prevent the occurrence of (a particular signal) in a circuit
    2. to prevent the performance of (a particular operation)


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Derived Forms

  • inˈhibitable, adjective
  • inˈhibitive, adjective

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Other Words From

  • in·hib·it·a·ble adjective
  • in·hib·i·to·ry [in-, hib, -i-tawr-ee], in·hib·i·tive adjective
  • o·ver·in·hib·it verb (used with object)
  • un·in·hib·it·ing adjective

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Word History and Origins

Origin of inhibit1

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English inhibiten, from Latin inhibitus, past participle of inhibēre “to restrain,” equivalent to in- in- 2 + -hibēre, combining form of habēre “to have, hold”

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Word History and Origins

Origin of inhibit1

C15: from Latin inhibēre to restrain, from in- ² + habēre to have

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Synonym Study

See forbid.

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Example Sentences

Studies have repeatedly shown that Plan B ok “does not inhibit implantation.”

If the technology works well, secrecy can inhibit its deployment.

“Oil is antimicrobial and gets into the tissues of the mouth to inhibit bacterial growth,” says Caldecott.

Since the FDA approved Plan B in 1999, repeated studies have shown the drug does not inhibit implantation.

IUDs, also named in the Hobby Lobby and Conestoga suits, almost certainly can inhibit implantation.

If he does not inhibit or exclude from his mind the word “Petition” he can make no advance.

The wine would cleanse and at least inhibit bacterial growth.

You worked your way outward on this run, and the High Council didn't see fit to erase those memories or inhibit them.

By refraining from the physical expression, one may at least partially inhibit the emotion.

The public welfare requires that we inhibit our fighting impulses, except in cases of self-defense or war.

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