expression, ichidan verb
Figurative expression meaning to prevent someone from speaking out, often by force, bribery, or intimidation. Can also refer to physically covering the mouth.
証人の口を封じるために、彼らは大金を渡した。
They paid a large sum of money to silence the witness.
政府は批判的なメディアの口を封じようとしている。
The government is trying to muzzle the critical media.