Synonyms for

Burke

Verb / bɜ:k / Another word for burke — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To silence or suppress quietly

Synonyms & similar words

edmundburke marthajaneburk marthajaneburke burke burk calamityjane quash quiet silence squash suppress stifle still subdue smother muffle blanket muzzle hush gag stultify overawe overwhelm quell

Synonyms by register

Formal

suppress stifle quash smother

Informal

hush up cover up sweep under the rug

Literary

inter smother conceal

Antonyms

reveal disclose expose uncover bring to light make public

Common collocations

  • burke a question
  • burke an issue
  • burke a scandal
  • burke a murder
  • burke the truth
  • burke an investigation

Word family

verb burke

Usage note

Primarily used to mean to suppress or dispose of something, especially a difficult question or issue. It can also refer to a specific method of murder, though this usage is less common.

Example sentences

  1. The government tried to burke the news of the corruption scandal.
  2. He decided to burke his doubts and take the job.
  3. I can't burke my feelings for you anymore.

Quotes

  • The surest way to prevent seditions...is to take away the matter of them; for if there be fuel prepared, it is hard to tell whence the spark shall come that shall set it on fire. It was burking the question to refuse inquiry into the causes of that fuel. - Edmund Burke
  • All tyranny needs to gain a foothold is for people of good conscience to remain silent. - Edmund Burke
  • The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing. - Edmund Burke

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