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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 The state is seven years into an insurance market contraction, with regulated carriers freezing business or dropping large blocs of policies. — Paige St. John, Los Angeles Times, 20 Sep. 2026 Official data released this month confirmed that Chile is on the brink of recession after two consecutive quarters of economic contraction. — ABC News, 20 Sep. 2026 Watermelon, bananas, avocados, sweet potatoes, dairy, leafy greens, and seafood provide nutrients that support healthy muscle contraction and relaxation. — Oluseun Olufade, Verywell Health, 17 Sep. 2026 The goal is controlled contraction and complete relaxation, not maxing out reps. — Samantha Agate, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 16 Sep. 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
  • The second, Stillpoint, aims to release and restore calm with a deep oil-free massage, along with rocking compressions, assisted stretches, and Kansa wand techniques.
    — Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 3 Oct. 2026
  • For larger workloads, batch processing can handle multiple files for tasks such as conversion, merging, compression, OCR, printing, encryption, and adding or removing watermarks.
    — StackCommerce Team, PC Magazine, 2 Oct. 2026
Definition of compression
Noun
  • So scientists use frequency-dependent squeezing to reduce quantum noise.
    — Ameya Paleja, Interesting Engineering, 22 May 2026
  • Maenpaa added that the physical act of squeezing creates a sensory anchor.
    — Samantha Agate, Charlotte Observer, 7 May 2026
Definition of squeezing
Noun
  • Experts say the risk of contracting rabies from a bat remains low, but the disease is almost always fatal once symptoms appear and is preventable with prompt treatment.
    — Karen Garcia, Los Angeles Times, 1 Oct. 2026
  • This included contracting with OpenAI to provide ChatGPT Edu to all its faculty, staff and students and setting up an advisory board to advocate for AI skills needed in the state’s workforce.
    — Tarini Mehta, Sacbee.com, 28 Sep. 2026
Definition of contracting
Noun
  • Common warning signs include drafts, rising energy bills, difficult-to-open or lock windows, increased outside noise and frequent condensation.
    — Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 5 Oct. 2026
  • It was completely melted at this point, the plastic tubing slick with condensation.
    — Rachel Heng, New Yorker, 4 Oct. 2026
Definition of condensation
Noun
  • Mark Schiefelbein | Getty Images Economic squeeze Marshall has been a stalwart Trump ally for years.
    — Luke Fountain, CNBC, 6 Oct. 2026
  • The knock-on effect is a resource squeeze that has led to surveys being cut.
    — Alexis Akwagyiram, semafor.com, 5 Oct. 2026
Definition of squeeze
Noun
  • These snakes kill their prey by constriction and then swallow it whole.
    — Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 3 Sep. 2026
  • Those whose feet are wont to slip out of their kicks while in motion will be happy to know that the Novablast 6’s tongue and overall construction locks the entire foot in without constriction.
    — Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 1 Sep. 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 8 Oct. 2026.

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