compression

noun

com·​pres·​sion kəm-ˈpre-shən 

1

a

: the act, process, or result of compressing

b

: the state of being compressed

2

: the process of compressing the fuel mixture in a cylinder of an internal combustion engine (as in an automobile)

3

: the compressed remains of a fossil plant

4

: conversion (as of data, a data file, or a communications signal) in order to reduce the space occupied or bandwidth required

compressional

kəm-ˈpre-sh(ə-)nəl 

adjective

Synonyms of compression

• squeezing
• condensing
• contraction
• condensation
• squeeze
• contracting
• constriction

Examples of compression in a Sentence

the compression of a long, complicated story into a two-hour movie is never easy

Recent Examples on the Web

Along with contrast therapy, Pause Studio offers services including infrared sauna, NAD+ treatments to support cellular repair, float treatments, cryotherapy, compression therapy and AI-powered Aescape massage. —Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 2 Jan. 2026

According to the Medical Examiner’s Office report, the child’s cause of death was asphyxia due to neck compression, and her manner of death was an accident. —Teri Figueroa, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 Dec. 2025

According to the company, the system offers pressure levels ranging from 80 to 180 millimeters of mercury (mmHg), covering everything from light activation to deep compression commonly used in professional sports therapy. —Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 31 Dec. 2025

Looks aside, the bag is roomy, expandable, and features interior elements like zippered panels, mesh pockets, garment tie-down straps, and compression belts to keep all your travel must-haves neatly arranged. —Michelle Baricevic, Travel + Leisure, 30 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for compression

• accession
• aggression
• concession
• confession
• depression
• digression
• discretion
• expression
• impression
• obsession
• oppression
• possession

Kids Definition

compression

noun

com·​pres·​sion kəm-ˈpresh-ən 

1

: the act, process, or result of compressing : the state of being compressed

2

: the process of compressing the fuel mixture in the cylinders of an internal-combustion engine

compressional

-(ə-)nəl 

adjective

Medical Definition

compression

noun

com·​pres·​sion kəm-ˈpresh-ən 

: the act, process, or result of compressing especially when involving a compressing force on a bodily part

compression of an artery by forceps

compression of the brain by the bones of a depressed fracture