compressive

adjective

com·​pres·​sive kəm-ˈpre-siv How to pronounce compressive (audio)
1
: of or relating to compression
2
: tending to compress
compressively adverb

Examples of compressive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
That’s thanks to their compressive design that transforms overflowing contents into neat units. Clara McMahon, PEOPLE, 6 Oct. 2025 In contrast, compressive strength measures its ability to resist being squeezed or crushed, often expressed in PSI or on the Mohs hardness scale. Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 26 Sep. 2025 In order to extend the life of your favorite suitcase down to the detail, keep reading to find the genius protective hacks worth investing in from just $9 at Amazon, from handy luggage straps to compressive packing cubes that will eliminate strain on your bag’s zipper. Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 23 Sep. 2025 Back by popular demand, the selections that are part of this capsule are all unified by one key element: the fabric they’re made of, which is the same breathable, naturally compressive, and shape-retaining polyamide-slash-elastane blend that originally put Skims’ cult-fave bodysuits on the map. Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 11 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for compressive

Word History

First Known Use

1572, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of compressive was in 1572

Cite this Entry

“Compressive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/compressive. Accessed 22 Oct. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!