contraction

noun

kən-ˈtrak-shən How to pronounce contraction (audio)
Definition of contractionnext
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

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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 contraction These tests evaluated how the hardware, seals, and fluid flow handle extreme thermal contraction and the intense temperature differences between the freezing propellant and the coupler materials. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 30 June 2026 Rapid oscillations trigger muscle contractions that can indirectly support lymph movement. — Allison Palmer, Kansas City Star, 30 June 2026 Sterile syringe programs are associated with a 50% decrease in HIV and Hepatitis C contraction among people who inject drugs, a 2024 CDC study reported. — Maya Henry, Oklahoma Watch, 30 June 2026 On a 0 to 100 scale, a reading above 50 reflects expansion, while below 50 indicates contraction. — ABC News, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for contraction
Recent Examples of Synonyms for contraction
  1. compression
  2. squeezing
  3. contracting
  4. condensation
  5. squeeze
  6. constriction
Noun
  • Throughout June, The Times verified Ukrainian strikes on oil and gas storage facilities, compression stations and power plants.
    — Marc Santora, New York Times, 4 July 2026
  • Do not miss the Ashes signature treatment that includes compression, full-body lymphatic feathering, and acupuncture.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 July 2026
Definition of compression
Noun
  • Matt Hooper’s squeezing of the Styrofoam cup in answer to Shaw’s squeezing of the beer can was something that actually happened.
    — Randall Colburn, Entertainment Weekly, 20 June 2026
  • So scientists use frequency-dependent squeezing to reduce quantum noise.
    — Ameya Paleja, Interesting Engineering, 22 May 2026
Definition of squeezing
Noun
  • Based on a Facebook page for Mora’s contracting business, the real estate company only flipped one other property aside from Evangelista’s home.
    — Sacbee.com, Sacbee.com, 7 July 2026
  • Musk and his companies have become increasingly important players in Republican politics and federal contracting.
    — Luke Fountain,Justin Papp, CNBC, 3 July 2026
Definition of contracting
Noun
  • The result blurs the line between shimmer and velvet-matte, and looks like condensation fogging up a glass.
    — Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 6 July 2026
  • What this ear of his allows, along with his cruelty in using it, is a drastic condensation of the Platonic method for depicting a dinner party.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 6 July 2026
Definition of condensation
Noun
  • The offer comes amid a period of stress for the global aviation sector, as airlines navigate a jet fuel squeeze caused by the conflict in the Middle East.
    — Hugh Leask, CNBC, 6 July 2026
  • In addition to tilt and pressure sensitivity, the Apple Pencil Pro adds squeeze and delete functions to the palette, along with a new barrel roll gesture and haptic vibrational feedback.
    — Cierra Cowan, PC Magazine, 6 July 2026
Definition of squeeze
Noun
  • Vanja recognized that the fitness industry’s focus on repetitive, linear movements actively contributes to physical constriction and chronic injury.
    — Ginger Gentile, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026
  • The season emphasizes emotional constriction and physical limits, not literal clock time.
    — Kathryn VanArendonk, Vulture, 26 June 2026
Definition of constriction

Browse Nearby Words

contracting (for)
contraction
contracts
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Contraction.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contraction. Accessed 12 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on contraction

Nglish: Translation of contraction for Spanish Speakers

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