Part of Speech

Verb / Noun

Pronunciation

/tʃoʊk/

Definitions

• Verb: To block or impede the flow of air, making breathing difficult or impossible.
• Verb: To fail to perform or produce in a critical situation, especially when under pressure.
• Verb: To suppress or restrict something, such as emotions, speech, or an action.
• Noun: A situation where one is unable to breathe properly, often caused by an obstruction in the throat.
• Noun: A failure to perform as expected, particularly in high-stakes circumstances.

Usage Examples

• He began to choke after swallowing the food too quickly.
• The player choked under pressure during the final moments of the game.
• Her attempt to speak in front of the crowd caused her to choke on her words.
• She could feel the air choking her in the thick smoke.

Etymology

Derived from Middle English "choken," from Old French "choker" meaning to strangle or suffocate. The word has its origins in the Vulgar Latin word *cucullare*, meaning to cover the head, which relates to the idea of obstruction, particularly in breathing. The term has been in use since the early 14th century.

Synonyms

• suffocate
• strangle
• gag
• smother
• block

Antonyms

• breathe
• flow
• release
• liberate

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In some dialects, "choke" may be pronounced with a softer "ch" sound, especially in non-rhotic accents such as British English. In contrast, American English tends to pronounce the "ch" sound with more emphasis. Additionally, regional variations may affect the verb form, such as in the UK using "choked up" more frequently in a figurative sense.

Historical Usage

Historically, the word "choke" has been used to describe physical suffocation, such as from an obstruction in the throat or airway. It has also been used metaphorically, particularly in sports, where athletes are said to "choke" under pressure, failing to perform when it matters most. The figurative use of "choke" in this sense became widespread in the 20th century, particularly in relation to competitive games.

Cultural Nuances

The concept of "choking" in the cultural context has expanded beyond its literal meaning of suffocation to include psychological pressure in high-stakes situations. In sports, to "choke" is often seen as a sign of weakness or a lack of mental fortitude. In the entertainment world, performers may also "choke" on stage, either forgetting lines or failing to execute a performance under pressure. The term is often used colloquially to describe situations where individuals fail due to external pressure.

More Information

"Choke" is not just a word describing a physical act but also an emotional one. It conveys a feeling of being overwhelmed, whether physically or psychologically. It is widely used in both casual and formal language to discuss failure, especially when an individual has the potential to succeed but succumbs to internal or external stressors. Understanding the term in both its physical and metaphorical senses is important to grasp its full significance in different contexts.