constrict

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of constrict are compress, condense, contract, deflate, and shrink. While all these words mean "to decrease in bulk or volume," constrict implies a tightening that reduces diameter.

the throat is constricted by a tight collar

Where would compress be a reasonable alternative to constrict?

Although the words compress and constrict have much in common, compress implies a pressing into a small compass and definite shape usually against resistance.

compressed cotton into bales

When is condense a more appropriate choice than constrict?

The words condense and constrict can be used in similar contexts, but condense implies a reducing of something homogeneous to greater compactness without significant loss of content.

condense the essay into a paragraph

When could contract be used to replace constrict?

In some situations, the words contract and constrict are roughly equivalent. However, 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 constrict?

The words deflate and constrict are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, deflate implies a contracting by reducing the internal pressure of contained air or gas.

deflate the balloon

When might shrink be a better fit than constrict?

The meanings of shrink and constrict largely overlap; 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 constrict Heipeiwa Cotton-linen Wide-leg Trousers For a more elevated look, consider these wide-leg linen trousers as a comfy alternative to constricting dress pants. Melony Forcier, Travel + Leisure, 23 Aug. 2025 But the binary choice between a single state and two separate ones is false, unnecessarily constricted. Hussein Agha, New Yorker, 22 Aug. 2025 Remove jewelry, watches or anything that could constrict swelling. Tina Chen, Mercury News, 22 Aug. 2025 Blood vessels in the limbs constrict, reducing blood flow (and oxygen) to nonessential areas while redirecting it to the heart, brain and lungs. Scott Lafee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for constrict
Recent Examples of Synonyms for constrict
Verb
  • In recent years, the gaming industry has been defined by mass layoffs, shrinking budgets and studios scrambling to replicate blockbuster success with Hollywood-sized spending.
    Keller Gordon, NPR, 8 Sep. 2025
  • With record numbers of Chinese retiring, the country faces mounting strain on its pension system and social safety nets, alongside a shrinking workforce to support them.
    Micah McCartney, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • As competition intensifies and timelines compress, fashion players can no longer rely on legacy ways of working.
    SJ Studio, Sourcing Journal, 4 Sep. 2025
  • Circana’s Liquid Mix compresses that cycle to minutes, vastly improving how brands can respond to market signals.
    Kiri Masters, Forbes.com, 3 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
    Nick Vivarelli, Variety, 8 Sep. 2025
  • This interview has been condensed and edited.
    Kristen Edgreen Kaufman, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • The shakeups are the latest at a time when restaurants are squeezed between a labor shortage, rising food prices and a loss of customers as diners cut back on spending.
    Bud Kennedy, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 Sep. 2025
  • For now, the three youngest each sleep in their own pack-and-plays squeezed into their parents’ bedroom.
    Jeff Truesdell, People.com, 9 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Constrict.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/constrict. Accessed 11 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on constrict

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