Suffocation
Pronunciation : Suf`fo*ca"tion
Part of Speech : n.
Etymology : [L. suffocatio: cf. F. suffocation.]
Definition : Defn: The act of suffocating, or the state of being suffocated; death caused by smothering or choking.
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.
Source : Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 1913