To be smothered means to be completely covered or overwhelmed by something. A child bombarded with hugs by family members during the holidays, or bundled in too many layers of clothing, might be described as being smothered.
While smothered can describe feeling trapped or restricted, it takes on a much more appetizing meaning in the kitchen. In cooking, a smothered dish might be completely covered with a rich, flavorful sauce. Juicy meatballs covered in melted cheese and a savory sauce are a smothered treat! Whether talking about food, feelings, or physical situations, the word smothered conveys a sense of being completely — perhaps excessively — covered.