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 Producing has always been an uphill climb, and it has been made steeper as the business roils with cutbacks and contraction and the infiltration of AI. — Mike Fleming Jr, Deadline, 31 Aug. 2026 Official inflation is near 90%, the rial has passed 2 million to the dollar, and the IMF has this year put the contraction in a range of about 5 to 6 percent, per Anadolu's explainer and the Fund's later wartime update. — Güney Yıldız, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026 The dip over the past few years was driven primarily by a major contraction of the offshore wind industry. — Eugenia Perozo, semafor.com, 27 Aug. 2026 The contraction isn’t just reaching workers at the end of long careers. — Cerys Davies, Los Angeles Times, 24 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
  • The medium compression is just enough to provide a little tummy control, without leaving me feeling squeezed after lunch.
    — Melanie Fincher, Southern Living, 3 Sep. 2026
  • The flattering design features a contoured waistband and medium compression for a shaping and lifting effect throughout.
    — Melony Forcier, Travel + Leisure, 2 Sep. 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
  • The Department of Defense is piloting a new tech contracting model, where companies can work at automating department processes and earn a percentage of the savings.
    — Benjamin Guggenheim, Washington Post, 8 Sep. 2026
  • Investigators accused him of obstruction of justice, unlawful contracting and, among other things, claiming $127,630 in expenses linked to fictitious missions and plane tickets for nearly a dozen trips.
    — Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 3 Sep. 2026
Definition of contracting
Noun
  • Chicago Cubs crew and players worked to remove condensation from the court during the NCAA college Volleyball Challenge Week.
    — Doha Madani, NBC news, 7 Sep. 2026
  • Range hoods can also minimize excess moisture from steam, which can contribute to condensation and long-term wear on surfaces.
    — Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 3 Sep. 2026
Definition of condensation
Noun
  • The debt squeeze comes as Milei’s broader support has weakened.
    — Débora Rey, Los Angeles Times, 10 Sep. 2026
  • The end of training camps brings a roster squeeze that opens some young players up to waiver claims.
    — Eric Stephens, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2026
Definition of squeeze
Noun
  • These snakes kill their prey by constriction and then swallow it whole.
    — Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 3 Sep. 2026
  • Those whose feet are wont to slip out of their kicks while in motion will be happy to know that the Novablast 6’s tongue and overall construction locks the entire foot in without constriction.
    — Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 1 Sep. 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 13 Sep. 2026.

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