Main Entry: in·hib·it

Pronunciation: \in-ˈhib-ət\

Function: transitive verb

1 a : to restrain from free or spontaneous activity especially through the operation of inner psychological or external social constraints <an inhibited person> b : to check or restrain the force or vitality of <inhibit aggressive tendencies>
2 a : to reduce or suppress the activity of <a presynaptic neuron can not only excite a postsynaptic neuron but can also inhibit it—H. W. Kendler> b : to retard or prevent the formation of c : to retard, interfere with, or prevent (a process or reaction) <inhibit ovulation>