Inhibit

Definition

To hinder, restrain, or prevent (an action or process).

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈhɪbɪt/
• Respelling: in-HIB-it (with "in" as in "tin," "HIB" as in "rib," and "it" as in "sit")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈhɪbɪt/
• Respelling: in-HIB-it (with "in" as in "tin," "HIB" as in "rib," and "it" as in "sit")

In both dialects, "inhibit" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "HIB." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "in-HIB-it."

Etymology

Derived from Latin "inhibitus", past participle of "inhibere", which comes from "in-" ('in, on, upon') + "habere" ('to hold').

Derivatives

• Inhibition (noun)
• Inhibitor (noun)
• Inhibited (adjective)
• Inhibiting (adjective)
• Inhibitory (adjective)

Synonyms

• Restrain
• Suppress
• Obstruct

Antonyms

• Promote
• Facilitate
• Encourage

Usage

"Inhibit" is commonly used in various contexts, including psychology, biology, and general language, to describe the act of restraining or holding back.

Related Terms

• Constraint
• Restraint
• Prevention
• Limitation
• Suppression

Detailed Definition

Verb

• Inhibit (Verb, General): To prevent or hold back an action, process, or behavior.
  • Example: "Fear of failure can inhibit one's ability to succeed."

• Inhibit (Verb, Biology): To slow down or prevent a process or reaction.
  • Example: "Certain chemicals can inhibit the growth of bacteria."

• Inhibit (Verb, Psychology): To consciously or unconsciously suppress a thought or desire.
  • Example: "He was able to inhibit his anger during the discussion."

Note: "Inhibit" often carries a connotation of restriction or limitation, especially in the context of processes or actions.