choke
UK: tʃəʊk | US: tʃoʊk
vt. to restrict airflow, causing difficulty in breathing
vt. to block or obstruct a passage
vi. to fail to perform under pressure (e.g., in sports)
n. a device controlling airflow in an engine
The word "choke" traces back to Old English ācēocian (to suffocate), derived from Proto-Germanic kēkōną (to gag or retch). The modern form "choke" emerged in Middle English, retaining its core meaning of restricting breath. The verb suffix "-e" (now silent) was common in older English forms. The word’s evolution reflects its physical and metaphorical uses—from literal suffocation to figurative failure under pressure.
The thick smoke made him choke and cough violently.
Be careful not to choke on small objects.
The team tends to choke during crucial matches.
She adjusted the choke to start the car engine.
Overgrown weeds can choke the growth of garden plants.