(n.) The joint next above the hock, and near the flank, in the
hind leg of the horse and allied animals; the joint corresponding to
the knee in man; -- called also stifle joint. See Illust. under Horse.
(v. t.) To stop the breath of by crowding something into the
windpipe, or introducing an irrespirable substance into the lungs; to
choke; to suffocate; to cause the death of by such means; as, to stifle
one with smoke or dust.
(v. t.) To stop; to extinguish; to deaden; to quench; as, to
stifle the breath; to stifle a fire or flame.
(v. t.) To suppress the manifestation or report of; to smother;
to conceal from public knowledge; as, to stifle a story; to stifle
passion.
(v. i.) To die by reason of obstruction of the breath, or
because some noxious substance prevents respiration.
