erdrosseln

The German word "erdrosseln" is a verb meaning "to strangle" or "to choke".

• It is made up of "er", a prefix often indicating completion or intensification, and the root "drosseln", which means "to throttle" or "to restrict (flow or speed)".

• "drosseln" itself is used in contexts like throttling an engine or reducing flow.

Similar words:

• "würgen" (to choke/gag),
• "ersticken" (to suffocate),
• "erwürgen" (to strangle, similar but often implies more violence).

Difference:

• "erdrosseln" typically specifically means strangling with the hands or a ligature, leading to death by cutting off air.
• "würgen" is broader, referring to any choking or gagging action, often temporary discomfort.
• "ersticken" is more general suffocation, not necessarily by strangling.
• "erwürgen" is very close but often emphasizes the violent act of strangling as a murder method.