Synonyms of stunting

stunting

verb

present participle of stunt

as in suppressing

to hold back the normal growth of

unfortunately, an unusually dry summer seems to have permanently stunted the tree

Synonyms & Similar Words

• suppressing
• halting
• diminishing
• blocking
• stopping
• shrinking
• dwarfing
• staying
• catching
• stalling
• stemming
• impeding
• checking
• obstructing
• arresting
• holding back
• downsizing
• holding up
• stilling
• balking

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• promoting
• advancing
• encouraging
• fostering
• boosting
• forwarding
• nurturing
• nourishing

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of stunting

From stunting and weakening plant growth to delaying flower production, these 1/10th-inch-long pests can wreak havoc. — Abby Monteil, The Spruce, 12 June 2026

Negotiations were shelved, leading to an impasse and stunting Wilson’s development, who was recovering from keyhole ankle surgery which was worse than first thought. — Jacob Tanswell, New York Times, 10 June 2026

The evidence In addition to animal research, there are a handful of preliminary studies in humans suggesting colostrum may improve certain forms of inflammatory bowel syndrome, gastroenteritis, and upper respiratory tract infections, as well as stunting in children. — Ari Daniel, NPR, 1 June 2026

Sunflowers contain allelopathic compounds in all of their tissues that can impact nearby plants, reducing seed germination and stunting the growth of roots and shoots. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 30 May 2026

Bond yields around the world are rising, a spooky development that could easily weigh on economic growth by stunting consumer spending and capital investment. — Sarah Min, CNBC, 22 May 2026

The good news is that growing garlic near tomatoes can protect the harvest and keep pests from stunting the growth of your plants. — Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Apr. 2026

If the winds don't blow or are light, sea breezes develop, stunting any warming, especially close to the coast. — Terry Eliasen, CBS News, 14 Apr. 2026

Jokic dropped his right shoulder into Wembanyama, spun away from a stunting second defender on his left pivot foot, then planted his right at the elbow for take-off. — Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 5 Apr. 2026