<p><strong>Verb:</strong></p><ul><li>(used with object)<ul><li>to render absurdly or wholly futile or ineffectual, especially by degrading or frustrating means: Must we stultify the progress of these reforms with yet more red tape?</li><li>Synonyms: thwart, negate, impede, frustrate, dull, deaden, benumb</li><li>Law: to allege or prove (oneself or another person) to be of unsound mind.</li><li>Older Use: to make, or cause to appear, foolish or ridiculous.</li></ul></li></ul><p><strong>Verb:</strong></p><ul><li>(used without object)<ul><li>to become ineffectual or impaired, especially through frustrating, stifling, or deadening conditions: Without an environment of encouragement and creativity, the mind can stultify.</li></ul></li></ul>