word: muffle

muffle 

Definition:	(verb) Deaden (a sound or noise), especially by wrapping.
Synonyms:	mute, tone down, dampen, dull
Usage:	I was up past my bedtime, so I tried to muffle my sneeze by holding my pillow over my face. Discuss.

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this day in the yesteryear: Blackout Engulfs New York City (1977)

Blackout Engulfs New York City (1977)

The New York City blackout of 1977 came at a low point in New York history, when the city was facing a financial crisis and being terrorized by the “Son of Sam” murderer. The blackout lasted only one night, but when it was over, a record 3,776 people had been arrested, and looting, vandalism, and arson had caused an estimated $300 million worth of damage. The chain of events that sparked the blackout began when the power failed in Westchester County. What caused this initial power failure? More… Discuss