Synonyms of constrict

constrict

verb

kən-ˈstrikt 

1

as in to shrink

to become smaller in size or volume through the drawing together of particles of matter

the vessel constricted, thereby reducing the flow of blood

Synonyms & Similar Words

• shrink
• compress
• condense
• decrease
• contract
• collapse
• flatten
• diminish
• withdraw
• lessen
• wither
• shrivel
• recede
• wilt
• retreat
• deflate
• dry up
• dwindle
• abate

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• expand
• increase
• swell
• grow
• accumulate
• inflate
• balloon
• snowball
• puff (up)
• balloon

2

as in to compress

to reduce in size or volume by or as if by pressing parts or members together

constricted the opening with a clamp

Synonyms & Similar Words

• compress
• condense
• squeeze
• consolidate
• simplify
• pack
• compact
• cram
• narrow (down)
• curtail
• capsule
• collapse
• contract
• capsulize
• shorten
• constringe
• abridge
• telescope
• shrink
• abbreviate
• decrease
• streamline
• diminish
• downsize
• lessen
• concentrate
• jam-pack
• boil down
• jam
• crowd

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• expand
• open
• dilate
• decompress
• outspread
• disperse
• dissipate
• scatter
• distend
• outstretch
• inflate
• swell

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

Recent Examples of constrict

That’s a pretty evocative setting for a film, with the perpetual drone and roar of fighter jets overhead and an air of constricting menace pervading what should otherwise be placidly idle summer hours. — Richard Lawson, HollywoodReporter, 9 Sep. 2026

But what makes Memphis especially dangerous is that the offense has shown an early ability to draw the opposition into defending the run game and constricting the box, then blowing the defense open with a pass over the top. — Idaho Statesman, 8 Sep. 2026

As the calendar and other political realities constrict passage of any significant federal incentive, there is also the procedural requirement that the measure go to the Joint Committee on Taxation. — Dominic Patten, Deadline, 8 Sep. 2026

The narrow hallways were constricted with people trying to escape the fire. — Saleh Mwanamilongo, Los Angeles Times, 5 Sep. 2026