compress

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verb

Definition of COMPRESS

1

to reduce in size or volume by or as if by pressing parts or members together <a science textbook that compresses a lot of information about human reproduction into a few short chapters>

Synonyms capsule, capsulize, collapse, compact, condense, constrict, constringe, contract, narrow (down), squeeze, telescope

Related Words cram, crowd, jam, jam-pack, pack; abbreviate, abridge, curtail, shorten; boil down, downsize, shrink; concentrate, consolidate; simplify, streamline; decrease, diminish, lessen

Near Antonyms dilate, disperse, dissipate, scatter; distend, inflate, swell

Antonyms decompress, expand, open, outspread, outstretch

2

to become smaller in size or volume through the drawing together of particles of matter <the substance can compress under pressure>

Synonyms compress, condense, constrict, shrink

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)

Antonyms balloon, expand, snowball, swell