Definition of smother

The origin of the word "smother" can be traced back to the Old English word "smoθran," which means "to choke or suffocate." The word "smother" has undergone various changes in pronunciation and spelling over time. In Middle English, the word was spelled "smotheren" and pronounced "smoutheren." It retained the same meaning of suffocation or choking. By the 15th century, the word had evolved to "smoothrene," pronounced "smoothurrene," reflecting the elision of the "th" sound in English. During the Renaissance, the spelling of the word was further simplified to "smoothre," pronounced "smoothrē." This spelling and pronunciation continued until the 19th century, at which point it began to be spelled "smother" and pronounced "smoðər" in modern English. The meaning of "smother" has also evolved over time. While it still connotes the sense of suffocation or suppression, it has come to be used more widely as a figurative term to describe overprotection or suppression of emotions, ideas, or desires. Overall, the journey of the word "smother" from Old English to modern English is a testament to the flexibility and richness of the English language, revealing the evolution of both linguistic norms and cultural meanings.