'Suffocation' definitions:

Definition of 'suffocation'

From: WordNet
noun
Killing by depriving of oxygen [syn: suffocation, asphyxiation]
noun
The condition of being deprived of oxygen (as by having breathing stopped); "asphyxiation is sometimes used as a form of torture" [syn: suffocation, asphyxiation]

Definition of 'Suffocation'

From: GCIDE
  • Suffocation \Suf`fo*ca"tion\, n. [L. suffocatio: cf. F. suffocation.] The act of suffocating, or the state of being suffocated; death caused by smothering or choking. [1913 Webster]
  • Note: The term suffocation is sometimes employed synonymously with asphyxia. In the strict medico-legal sense it signifies asphyxia induced by obstruction of the respiration otherwise than by direct pressure on the neck (hanging, strangulation) or submersion (drowning). --Quain. [1913 Webster]