Synonyms of constrict

constrict

verb

kən-ˈstrikt 

1

as in to shrink

to become smaller in size or volume through the drawing together of particles of matter

the vessel constricted, thereby reducing the flow of blood

Synonyms & Similar Words

• shrink
• compress
• condense
• decrease
• contract
• collapse
• flatten
• diminish
• withdraw
• lessen
• wither
• shrivel
• recede
• wilt
• retreat
• deflate
• dry up
• dwindle
• abate

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• expand
• increase
• swell
• grow
• accumulate
• inflate
• balloon
• snowball
• puff (up)
• balloon

2

as in to compress

to reduce in size or volume by or as if by pressing parts or members together

constricted the opening with a clamp

Synonyms & Similar Words

• compress
• condense
• squeeze
• consolidate
• simplify
• pack
• compact
• cram
• narrow (down)
• curtail
• capsule
• collapse
• contract
• capsulize
• shorten
• constringe
• abridge
• telescope
• shrink
• abbreviate
• decrease
• streamline
• diminish
• downsize
• lessen
• concentrate
• jam-pack
• boil down
• jam
• crowd

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• expand
• open
• dilate
• decompress
• outspread
• disperse
• dissipate
• scatter
• distend
• outstretch
• inflate
• swell

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

Recent Examples of constrict

Swelling can occur rapidly, and these items can constrict blood flow. — Brandi D. Addison, USA Today, 2 Sep. 2026

This has further constricted trucking activity in and out of the port. — Glenn Taylor, Footwear News, 31 Aug. 2026

One of my biggest pet peeves is when flats dig into the back of my ankles, but these flexible slip-ons fit, well, like a glove, never feeling tight or constricting. — Jordan Julian, InStyle, 30 Aug. 2026

After the Philippines attained independence, in 1946, with the country’s economy constricted from more than three centuries of colonization, a diaspora spread around the world. — Albert Samaha, New Yorker, 29 Aug. 2026