strangle
Definitions
To kill someone by squeezing or constricting the throat.
To prevent or hinder the development or activity of something.
Examples
The thick vines began to strangle the life out of the old oak tree.
He felt as though the tight collar was starting to strangle him.
Lack of funding will eventually strangle the progress of the new research project.
Synonyms
choke suffocate throttle asphyxiate smother stifle constrict