constrict

Synonym Chooser

How is the word constrict different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of constrict are compress, condense, contract, deflate, and shrink. While all these words mean "to decrease in bulk or volume," constrict implies a tightening that reduces diameter.

the throat is constricted by a tight collar

Where would compress be a reasonable alternative to constrict?

Although the words compress and constrict have much in common, compress implies a pressing into a small compass and definite shape usually against resistance.

compressed cotton into bales

When is condense a more appropriate choice than constrict?

The words condense and constrict can be used in similar contexts, but condense implies a reducing of something homogeneous to greater compactness without significant loss of content.

condense the essay into a paragraph

When could contract be used to replace constrict?

In some situations, the words contract and constrict are roughly equivalent. However, contract applies to a drawing together of surfaces or particles or a reduction of area or length.

caused her muscles to contract

In what contexts can deflate take the place of constrict?

The words deflate and constrict are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, deflate implies a contracting by reducing the internal pressure of contained air or gas.

deflate the balloon

When might shrink be a better fit than constrict?

The meanings of shrink and constrict largely overlap; however, shrink implies a contracting or a loss of material and stresses a falling short of original dimensions.

the sweater will shrink when washed

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of constrict When that happens, your muscles contract, causing shivers, and blood vessels constrict to retain heat. Harry Bernheim, The Conversation, 23 May 2025 In cold weather, lips can appear blue because capillaries constrict, blood loses oxygen and changes to a darker color. Scott Lafee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 Apr. 2025 The researchers thought of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine, which causes blood vessels to constrict. Veronique Greenwood, Quanta Magazine, 26 Mar. 2025 When threatened, the human brain is designed to constrict and target the threat like the zoom lens of a camera. Bryan Robinson, Forbes, 3 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for constrict
Recent Examples of Synonyms for constrict
Verb
  • Amazon and other tech companies have also been shrinking their workforces through rolling layoffs over the past several years.
    Annie Palmer, CNBC, 1 July 2025
  • This time limit shrinks to 1 hour if the mercury rises to 90°F or higher, according to the USDA.
    Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 June 2025
Verb
  • Additionally, gross margins are projected to compress by 4 to 5 percentage points due to aggressive inventory clearance strategies.
    Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 24 June 2025
  • The lettuce is tightly compressed, and larger ingredients at the bottom don’t really move much with a simple shake.
    Wilder Davies, Bon Appetit Magazine, 20 June 2025
Verb
  • This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
    Christian Allaire, Vogue, 1 July 2025
  • This interview has been condensed and edited for clarity.
    Andrew Edgecliffe-Johnson, semafor.com, 27 June 2025
Verb
  • Paul Blackburn, with plenty of starting experience for Oakland, could squeeze into the picture too – especially if the Mets decide to try a six-man rotation that would save wear and tear on each man.
    Dan Schlossberg, Forbes.com, 28 June 2025
  • When pancake is ready to flip, squeeze the cinnamon mixture into a swirl shape on top of the pancake batter, pressing the tip of the bag slightly into the batter.
    Elizabeth Nelson, Southern Living, 27 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Constrict.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/constrict. Accessed 6 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on constrict

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