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 Without them, revenue constricted, theaters closed and staff were laid off. Ilan Berman, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025 But generations, or at least micro-cohorts of them, are undeniably shaped by the macroeconomic forces that constrict and expand during their (young) adult years. Dave Smith, Fortune, 11 Sep. 2025 High blood pressure can constrict the vessels around the kidney and reduce its ability to function. Nadia Kounang, CNN Money, 8 Sep. 2025 The silhouette of Gomez’s dress was formfitting without being constricting, emphasizing slight movement and fabric mobility. Julia Teti, Footwear News, 8 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for constrict
Recent Examples of Synonyms for constrict
Verb
  • These cuts are deeper than past efforts to shrink the size of the agency.
    Chris Sellers, The Conversation, 29 Sep. 2025
  • Some say the threat of mass layoffs could be a tactic to pressure Democrats already dismayed by the shrinking federal workforce.
    Matt Egan, CNN Money, 29 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Today's market compresses product life cycles down to quarters rather than years.
    Matthew Ross, Forbes.com, 19 Sep. 2025
  • In Pina and Martínez Lobato’s typical fleet fashion, the show compresses into its first six minutes the many extraordinary events of 22-year-old Max Varela’s (Pau Simón) life.
    Judy Berman, Time, 19 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • This interview has been condensed and edited for clarity.
    Alice Park, Time, 29 Sep. 2025
  • This interview has been edited and condensed.
    Caroline Mimbs Nyce, New Yorker, 29 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • The Reds squeezed into the third wild-card slot for their first playoff appearance in five years.
    Steven Louis Goldstein, New York Times, 30 Sep. 2025
  • Some people who have bought homes in the last few years feel squeezed by monthly payments that leave little cash left over.
    Brittney Melton, NPR, 29 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Constrict.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/constrict. Accessed 2 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on constrict

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