Dictionary

To suffocate; stifle; obstruct, more or less completely, the respiration of something or someone.

To extinguish or deaden, as fire, by covering, overlaying, or otherwise excluding the air.

Example: to smother a fire with ashes

To reduce to a low degree of vigor or activity; suppress or do away with; extinguish

Example: The committee's report was smothered.

In cookery: to cook in a close dish.

Example: beefsteak smothered with onions

That which smothers or appears to smother, particularly