Synonyms of contraction

contraction

noun

kən-ˈtrak-shən 

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

• compression
• squeezing
• contracting
• condensing
• condensation
• squeeze
• constriction
• consolidation
• compaction
• telescoping
• constricting
• concentration
• compacting
• curtailment
• shortening
• abbreviation
• abridgment
• decreasing
• streamlining
• simplification
• lessening
• diminishment

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• expansion
• dispersion
• decompression
• inflation
• scattering
• dissipation
• dilation
• swelling
• distension

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of contraction

The economic contraction is in sharp contrast to the 3% growth that the Arab world’s largest economy recorded in the first quarter of the year. — Melissa Hancock, Fortune, 4 Aug. 2026

The survey was, however, conducted before the release of June’s advance economic indicators report, which showed ⁠a moderate contraction in the goods trade deficit and retail inventories unchanged. — Reuters, NBC news, 30 July 2026

The survey was, however, conducted before the release of June's advance economic indicators report, which showed a moderate contraction in the goods trade deficit and retail inventories unchanged. — Lucia Mutikani, USA Today, 30 July 2026

China’s factory activity unexpectedly slowed in July, the first such contraction in five months, weighing on the pace of broader growth for the world's second-largest economy. — ABC News, 30 July 2026

Video

On Contractions of Multiple Words

You all would not have guessed some of these