1. the act of putting a muzzle on an animal or preventing free expression

1. present participle of muzzle: putting a muzzle on an animal to prevent biting
2. present participle of muzzle: preventing someone from expressing their opinions freely
Usage: figurative

Examples

• The veterinarian was muzzling the aggressive dog before the examination.
• Animal control officers are muzzling all stray dogs for safety.
• The government was accused of muzzling journalists and critics.
• The new policy is effectively muzzling whistleblowers.
• The muzzling of the press sparked widespread protests.
• Critics argued that the law amounted to muzzling free speech.
• The muzzling procedure must be done carefully to avoid injury.