inhibits

Definition of inhibitsnext
present tense third-person singular of inhibit
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2
3
as in discourages
to steer (a person) from an activity or course of action a fundamental sense of propriety should have inhibited you from making a drunken spectacle of yourself

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of inhibits Include Flexible Seating Holiday gatherings highlight seating issues immediately, such as a lack of enough room for everyone to sit, or a living room layout that inhibits conversation. Kristin Hohenadel, The Spruce, 14 Jan. 2026 Some sections are used to test what inhibits plant growth. Literary Hub, 7 Jan. 2026 The reaction temporarily inhibits stomach enzymes in the area from breaking down the drug, which gives the semaglutide enough time to be absorbed. Alice Park, Time, 5 Jan. 2026 Scorpios are known for their brooding and intense sensibilities, which Peter inhibits and exudes, as well as their deep loyalty. Lisa Stardust, PEOPLE, 15 Dec. 2025 That lack of clarity protects failure from exposure and inhibits successful programs from being duplicated. Dan Walters, Mercury News, 5 Dec. 2025 This is because people with darker skin have more melanin, a pigment that inhibits vitamin D production. Jillian Kubala, Health, 4 Dec. 2025 In some instances, the amygdala is doing the opposite of kindling fear—instead, trying to quell fear, and in doing so, inhibits breathing. Julia Daye, Popular Science, 3 Dec. 2025 The study found that cooking inhibits another enzyme called myrosinase, which is essential for sulforaphane production. Maggie O'Neill, Verywell Health, 21 Nov. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for inhibits
Verb
  • Aid groups say the true war death toll could be many times higher, as the fighting in vast and remote areas impedes access.
    ABC News, ABC News, 16 Feb. 2026
  • But the rulebook states a goal would be disallowed if an attacking player impedes the goalkeeper’s ability to move freely and defend the goal.
    Michael Russo, New York Times, 10 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • The couple submitted a complaint to the oil division of the Oklahoma Corporation Commission, which regulates the state’s oil and gas industry and is responsible for addressing related pollution.
    Nick Bowlin, The Frontier, 16 Feb. 2026
  • Beet juice influences nitric oxide production, which regulates blood pressure and oxygen delivery throughout the body.
    Amy Brownstein, Verywell Health, 16 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Additionally, the International Atomic Energy Agency, an initiative of President Eisenhower, facilitates peaceful nuclear energy and discourages military pressures to get the weapon.
    Arthur I. Cyr, Chicago Tribune, 10 Feb. 2026
  • Instead, the funds are being used to produce a narrative that diverts attention from a major public health issue and discourages the press from covering it.
    Eleanor M. Perfetto, STAT, 7 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Afterward, Denver7 heard from Douglas County residents, including a Parker woman who feels the move hinders productive conversations around local issues and is merely a way for the commissioners to dodge criticism and accountability.
    thedenverchannel.com, Denver Post, 5 Feb. 2026
  • Willis was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (FTD) in 2023, which hinders his ability to communicate.
    Lexi Carson, HollywoodReporter, 28 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Black tea contains polyphenols, such as theaflavins and thearubigins, that act like prebiotics, benefiting the bacteria in your microbiome.
    Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 15 Feb. 2026
  • For instance, some soil contains too much clay, causing drainage problems.
    David Beaulieu, The Spruce, 15 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • The tension between the audience wanting the best for Siaja while her community dissuades her is key to North of North’s appeal, and that all comes down to how strongly Lambe anchors the series around her.
    Kathryn VanArendonk, Vulture, 1 Dec. 2025
  • Taking away automatic renewal also dissuades employers from offering jobs to H-4 holders out of concerns about potential employment gaps, Peddibhotla added.
    Ethan Baron, Mercury News, 7 Nov. 2025
Verb
  • Maintain a safe distance from large vehicles - Trucks or buses can produce a water spray that hampers visibility.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 1 Feb. 2026
  • Maintain a safe distance from large vehicles - Trucks or buses can produce a water spray that hampers visibility.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 29 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Collective action deters bullies Harvard never stood alone.
    Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Fortune, 1 Feb. 2026
  • The presence of thimerosal deters growth of any germs.
    Gabrielle Emanuel, NPR, 30 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Inhibits.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/inhibits. Accessed 18 Feb. 2026.

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