Unable to breathe because something is blocking your airway; also means to fail or lose confidence at an important moment.
From Old English 'aceocian' (to choke), possibly related to Old Norse words; the metaphorical meaning of 'choking under pressure' comes from the physical sensation of being unable to perform.
Athletes talk about 'choking'—failing when it matters most—and brain science shows that extreme pressure actually disrupts the motor cortex, so it's a real thing, not just weakness.
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