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 Stand on a vibration plate Whole-body vibration plates trigger rapid, involuntary muscle contractions—imagine standing on a washing machine during the spin cycle. — Chloe Burcham, Vogue, 30 July 2026 But that contraction also reflects pressures driving factory closures and layoffs at an unprecedented rate. — Jasmin Malik Chua, Footwear News, 29 July 2026 But a market contraction in 2023 reportedly hit the gallery hard, leaving it struggling to pay artists, workers, and rent. — Tessa Solomon, ARTnews.com, 20 July 2026 From 2012 to 2020, Venezuela suffered what is likely the most severe economic contraction in a depression that has occurred without a war. — Mark Weisbrot, Twin Cities, 19 July 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
  • Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk was photographed wearing Normatec compression boots in the back seat of his car on post‑match drives home before becoming an official partner.
    — Lilian Raji, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026
  • Cooling gel sleeves can be popped in the freezer to soothe sore joints with icy, gentle compression.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 1 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
  • But until those requirements are formally published and MCOs have updated their systems, provider manuals and contracting terms accordingly, providers face a fragmented reality.
    — Valerie Cerra, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026
  • Cacioppo’s criminal history could undercut a central element of Hanaway’s claims about unfair contracting, which Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas called politically motivated.
    — Ben Wheeler, Kansas City Star, 24 July 2026
Definition of contracting
Noun
  • Allow the book to come back to room temperature while still sealed to prevent condensation, which could cause mold or mildew.
    — Lauren Bengtson, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 July 2026
  • The drain pan is intended to catch any condensation and moisture produced by the air conditioner.
    — Timothy Dale, The Spruce, 10 July 2026
Definition of condensation
Noun
  • If Philadelphia acquires another outfielder before the deadline — as many around baseball expect — the roster squeeze could leave Rincones without a place on the major league club.
    — Peter Chawaga, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026
  • Zendaya, 29, could then be seen placing her hand — adorned with her sparkling engagement ring — over Holland’s hand before giving the actor, 30, an affectionate squeeze.
    — Charlotte Phillipp, PEOPLE, 27 July 2026
Definition of squeeze
Noun
  • 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
  • The season emphasizes emotional constriction and physical limits, not literal clock time.
    — Kathryn VanArendonk, Vulture, 26 June 2026
Definition of constriction

Browse Nearby Words

contracting (for)
contraction
contracts
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Cite this Entry

“Contraction.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contraction. Accessed 3 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on contraction

Nglish: Translation of contraction for Spanish Speakers

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