repression
UK: rɪˈpreʃən | US: rɪˈpreʃən
n. 1. The act of suppressing or restraining something, especially by force or authority.
n. 2. (Psychology) The unconscious exclusion of painful thoughts or impulses from the conscious mind.
The word "repression" originates from Latin reprimere ("to press back"), combining re- (indicating reversal or intensity) and premere ("to press"). The term evolved through Old French repression into English, retaining its core idea of "holding back" or "suppressing." In psychology, Freud adopted it to describe the mind's defensive exclusion of distressing memories. The morphemes logically align: re- (forceful action) + press (physical/mental pressure) + -ion (abstract noun).
The government's repression of protests sparked international criticism.
Childhood trauma often leads to emotional repression.
The therapist helped her address years of repressed memories.
Repression of free speech violates human rights.
His stern expression hinted at deep repression of anger.