inhibit
/ɪnˈhɪbɪt/
Group 16Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (verb)
- To hinder, restrain, or prevent an action or process GRE
Example in Context
The toxic chemicals in the water supply had the potential to inhibit neurological development in young children.
Synonyms
hold backsuppressrestrain
Etymology
To hold back or restrain, preventing action.
- in- (Latin) — not
- habere (Latin) — to hold
Memory Aid
🚫Sounds like “inhibit it”
When I said, 'INHIBIT IT!' my friends froze like deer in headlights!
Visual Association
🛑A traffic stop sign halting a speeding car, representing the act of restraint.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “inhibit” mean on the GRE?
inhibit (verb) means “To hinder, restrain, or prevent an action or process”. The toxic chemicals in the water supply had the potential to inhibit neurological development in young children.
How to remember “inhibit” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “inhibit” sounds like “inhibit it”. When I said, 'INHIBIT IT!' my friends froze like deer in headlights!
What are synonyms for “inhibit”?
Common synonyms: hold back, suppress, restrain.