inhibit
|in-hib-it|
B2
/ɪnˈhɪbɪt/
restrain or hold back
Etymology
Etymology Information
'inhibit' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'inhibere,' where 'in-' meant 'in' and 'habere' meant 'to hold.'
Historical Evolution
'inhibere' transformed into the Old French word 'inhiber,' and eventually became the modern English word 'inhibit' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to hold in or restrain,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Verb 1
to hold back or restrain from doing something.
Fear can inhibit people from pursuing their dreams.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Verb 2
to prevent or slow down a process or action.
The medication is designed to inhibit the growth of bacteria.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40