repress

[rɪˈprɛs]

repress Definition

  • 1to hold back or restrain
  • 2to prevent the expression of a thought or feeling
  • 3to subdue or quell

Using repress: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "repress" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    She repressed her anger and calmly explained the situation.

  • Example

    The government tried to repress the protests with force.

  • Example

    He repressed his feelings of sadness and put on a brave face.

  • Example

    The memories were so painful that she had repressed them for years.

repress Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for repress

Antonyms for repress

Idioms Using repress

  • to resist or control a strong desire or impulse

    Example

    He had to repress the urge to scream when he heard the bad news.

  • to hide or deny one's true thoughts, feelings, or identity

    Example

    She felt like she had to repress her true self in order to fit in with her conservative family.

  • to try not to smile or laugh, especially in a serious or inappropriate situation

    Example

    She had to repress a smile when her boss made a ridiculous comment during the meeting.

Phrases with repress

  • a memory that has been unconsciously blocked or suppressed due to its association with a traumatic event

    Example

    Through therapy, she was able to recover a repressed memory of the abuse she suffered as a child.

  • the suppression or denial of one's sexual desires or identity due to social or cultural pressures

    Example

    Many people struggle with repressed sexuality due to societal expectations and norms.

  • feelings that are not expressed or acknowledged due to fear, shame, or other reasons

    Example

    His repressed emotions eventually led to a breakdown and he sought therapy to address them.

Origins of repress

from Latin 'reprimere', meaning 'to press back'

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Summary: repress in Brief

The verb 'repress' [rɪˈprɛs] means to hold back or restrain, prevent the expression of a thought or feeling, or subdue or quell. It can refer to emotions, memories, or desires, as in 'She repressed her anger' or 'repressed sexuality.' Idioms like 'repress the urge' and 'repress a smile' show how it extends to impulses and reactions.