contraction

contraction

noun

Definition of CONTRACTION

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 compacting, compaction, condensation, condensing, constricting, constriction, contracting, contraction, squeeze, squeezing, telescoping

Related Words abbreviation, abridgment (or abridgement), curtailment, shortening; concentration, consolidation; simplification, streamlining; decreasing, diminishment, lessening

Near Antonyms dilation, dispersion, dissipation, scattering; distension (or distention), inflation, swelling

Antonyms decompression, expansion