Synonyms of repression

repression

noun

ri-ˈpre-shən 

as in restraint

the checking of one's true feelings and impulses when dealing with others

psychologists talking about the repression of anger and how it affects one's health

Synonyms & Similar Words

• restraint
• discipline
• suppression
• inhibition
• composure
• constraint
• self-control
• discretion
• reserve
• refrainment
• self-restraint
• continence
• possession
• control
• self-command
• mastery
• silence
• willpower
• self-discipline
• self-censorship
• will
• distance
• self-government
• aloofness
• self-denial
• reticence
• self-mastery
• shyness
• bashfulness
• self-containment
• command
• modesty
• taciturnity
• self-possession
• detachedness
• self-poise

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• incontinence
• disinhibition
• gratification
• indulgence
• unconstraint
• frankness
• overindulgence
• candor
• bluntness
• uninhibitedness
• self-abandonment
• intemperance
• unrestrainedness
• self-indulgence
• immoderacy

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of repression

Their enthusiastic reception underscored the enduring aspiration for democratic liberty and dignity after decades of political repression, economic mismanagement, and corruption. — The Monitor's Editorial Board, Christian Science Monitor, 26 Oct. 2026

Rights groups ​and activists say repression has worsened in ​the period since. — Reuters, NBC news, 25 Oct. 2026

France's post-revolution history is not a solid story of protests and reforms, but of cycles of popular uprisings, repression, mobilization and political concessions. — ABC News, 21 Oct. 2026

Weak protections risk further increases in transnational repression and global surveillance. — Mary Lind, The Conversation, 21 Oct. 2026