constrict

con·strict

verb \kən-ˈstrikt\

Definition of CONSTRICT

transitive verb

1

a : to make narrow or draw together b : compress, squeeze <constrict a nerve>

2

: to stultify, stop, or cause to falter : inhibit

intransitive verb

: to become constricted

— con·stric·tive \-ˈstrik-tiv\ adjective

Examples of CONSTRICT

1. The drug is used to constrict blood vessels.
2. The declining economy has constricted job opportunities.
3. a life constricted by poverty and disease
4. He felt constricted by their notions of what was proper.

Origin of CONSTRICT

Latin constrictus, past participle of constringere

First Known Use: 1732

Related to CONSTRICT

Synonyms: compress, condense, contract, shrink

Antonyms: balloon, expand, snowball, swell

Related Words: collapse, deflate, flatten; dry up, shrivel, wilt, wither; abate, decrease, diminish, dwindle, lessen; recede, retreat, withdraw

Near Antonyms: accumulate, grow, increase; balloon, inflate, puff (up)

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See Synonym Discussion at contract

Rhymes with CONSTRICT

addict, afflict, conflict, convict, delict, depict, district, edict, evict, inflict, lipsticked, predict, restrict, unlicked, verdict