contraction

noun

kən-ˈtrak-shən How to pronounce contraction (audio)
Definition of contractionnext
as in compression
the act or process of reducing the size or volume of something by or as if by pressing most substances undergo contraction when cooled

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 contraction Gold steadied after its biggest weekly gain since January, with traders assessing a surprise contraction in the US jobs market that allayed concerns around an interest-rate hike. — Bloomberg, Chicago Tribune, 9 Aug. 2026 The public market has not yet been asked, and the one adjacent listing it was asked about, Circle, drew a Morgan Stanley downgrade on USDC contraction within a year of its euphoric debut. — Zennon Kapron, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026 Rethink Trade director Lori Wallach cautioned against viewing the first-half 2025-to-2026 contraction in the deficit as an all-out win, given that there were special circumstances that precipitated it. — Kate Nishimura, Footwear News, 6 Aug. 2026 The economic contraction is in sharp contrast to the 3% growth that the Arab world’s largest economy recorded in the first quarter of the year. — Melissa Hancock, Fortune, 4 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for contraction
Recent Examples of Synonyms for contraction
  1. compression
  2. squeezing
  3. contracting
  4. condensation
  5. squeeze
  6. constriction
Noun
  • There’s no better space-saving hack than compression packing cubes.
    — Anna Popp, Travel + Leisure, 14 Aug. 2026
  • Nissan The upcoming US version of the Rogue utilizes a specialized variable-compression turbo engine designed to maintain peak electrical generation efficiency at high American highway speeds, aiming for a real-world rating somewhere over 40 mpg.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 13 Aug. 2026
Definition of compression
Noun
  • So scientists use frequency-dependent squeezing to reduce quantum noise.
    — Ameya Paleja, Interesting Engineering, 22 May 2026
  • Maenpaa added that the physical act of squeezing creates a sensory anchor.
    — Samantha Agate, Charlotte Observer, 7 May 2026
Definition of squeezing
Noun
  • Second District Supervisor Sarmiento said the audit continues to expose problems in the county’s contracting processes.
    — Tony Saavedra, Oc Register, 12 Aug. 2026
  • Critics may reasonably ask whether a procurement preference could increase the state’s contracting costs.
    — David I. Levine, Mercury News, 12 Aug. 2026
Definition of contracting
Noun
  • Sometimes holding a dispenser over a steaming hot beverage can cause condensation to form around the pouring spout.
    — BestReviews, Chicago Tribune, 3 Aug. 2026
  • While some leaks like A/C condensation are normal, others such as fuel or brake fluid leaks are dangerous and require immediate attention.
    — Keith Laing, USA Today, 31 July 2026
Definition of condensation
Noun
  • Siri then scored on Denzer Guzman's safety squeeze, beating reliever Peyton Gray's flip home with a headfirst slide for a 3-2 lead.
    — CBS News, CBS News, 13 Aug. 2026
  • Siri then scored on Denzer Guzman’s safety squeeze, beating reliever Peyton Gray’s flip home with a headfirst slide for a 3-2 lead.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 13 Aug. 2026
Definition of squeeze
Noun
  • Consequently, the rapid temperature change and accompanying constriction and dilation of blood vessels in the palate can produce a stronger pain signal than in individuals without migraine, resulting in a more pronounced headache.
    — Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 7 Aug. 2026
  • Vanja recognized that the fitness industry’s focus on repetitive, linear movements actively contributes to physical constriction and chronic injury.
    — Ginger Gentile, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026
Definition of constriction

Browse Nearby Words

contracting (for)
contraction
contracts
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Contraction.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contraction. Accessed 17 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on contraction

Nglish: Translation of contraction for Spanish Speakers

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