compress

Synonym Chooser

How is the word compress different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of compress are condense, constrict, contract, deflate, and shrink. While all these words mean "to decrease in bulk or volume," compress implies a pressing into a small compass and definite shape usually against resistance.

compressed cotton into bales

When might condense be a better fit than compress?

While the synonyms condense and compress are close in meaning, condense implies a reducing of something homogeneous to greater compactness without significant loss of content.

condense the essay into a paragraph

When is it sensible to use constrict instead of compress?

The words constrict and compress can be used in similar contexts, but constrict implies a tightening that reduces diameter.

the throat is constricted by a tight collar

When could contract be used to replace compress?

While in some cases nearly identical to compress, contract applies to a drawing together of surfaces or particles or a reduction of area or length.

caused her muscles to contract

In what contexts can deflate take the place of compress?

Although the words deflate and compress have much in common, deflate implies a contracting by reducing the internal pressure of contained air or gas.

deflate the balloon

When would shrink be a good substitute for compress?

In some situations, the words shrink and compress are roughly equivalent. However, shrink implies a contracting or a loss of material and stresses a falling short of original dimensions.

the sweater will shrink when washed

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 compress The ambient material around the exploding star is compressed by the shock waves, creating the lovely filaments and ribbons of gas commonly seen in a supernova’s expanding cloud of debris. Phil Plait, Scientific American, 25 Apr. 2025 Some users note that these cubes take up as much space as bags that do not compress items. Bestreviews, Mercury News, 16 Apr. 2025 Streaming services compress the audio more vigorously than is common in physical media, which can cause problems with intelligibility. Samuel Axon, ArsTechnica, 25 Apr. 2025 Treatment for groin strains includes rest, icing, compressing the affected area, and taking pain medications. Mark Gurarie, Health, 22 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for compress
Recent Examples of Synonyms for compress
Verb
  • This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
    Michael Cuby, Them., 14 May 2025
  • This conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity.
    Jessica DuLong, CNN Money, 12 May 2025
Verb
  • Though East Contra Costa has been the hub of refinery activities in Northern California, the number of jobs in the remaining refineries was limited, and had been shrinking in the past decade.
    Michael Bernick, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025
  • In fact, Hele offers a shortening kit that shrinks the platform down to 5.5 feet (1.7 m), aiming for the most universal vehicle fit.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 12 May 2025
Verb
  • Custom Container Living View 8 Images Custom Container Living has transformed a shipping container into an ultra-compact tiny house that squeezes a home for two into just 160 sq ft (14.8 sq m).
    Adam Williams May 08, New Atlas, 8 May 2025
  • Auto dealers, squeezed by President Donald Trump’s tariffs on the industry, are already seeing a tighter supply of vehicles to offer buyers at a time when sticker prices for many models are set to climb. Pine Belt Subaru in Lakewood, New Jersey, normally receives 100 to 120 cars a month.
    Brian Cheung, NBC news, 7 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Compress.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/compress. Accessed 20 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on compress

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