narrows 1 of 2

Definition of narrowsnext
as in strait
a narrow body of water between two land masses we had to cautiously navigate our dinghy through the narrows before reaching the open water of the bay

Synonyms & Similar Words

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narrows

2 of 2

verb

present tense third-person singular of narrow

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for narrows
Verb
  • Indiana is in for another stretch of dangerous winter weather as Arctic air tightens its grip on the state, bringing subzero wind chills, brief midweek relief and another chance for snow heading into the weekend.
    Brandi D. Addison, IndyStar, 20 Jan. 2026
  • Japan’s push comes as China tightens its grip on critical mineral exports.
    Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 12 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Breathing in cold air constricts blood vessels, which elevates blood pressure and narrows coronary arteries, increasing the risk of cardiac strain.
    Kaycee Sloan, Cincinnati Enquirer, 23 Jan. 2026
  • Cold water immersion constricts blood vessels, reduces swelling, numbs sore areas, and flushes lactic acid from the muscles.
    Outside, Outside, 10 Dec. 2025
Verb
  • That imbalance — one main character rendered flesh and blood while the other never comes to life — hinders the central narrative of the film.
    Murtada Elfadl, Variety, 3 Jan. 2026
  • The anti-caking coating that prevents cheese from sticking together also hinders cheese from blending or melting into other foods with ease.
    Josh Miller, Southern Living, 27 Dec. 2025
Verb
  • For example, for feedback on video production, Dropbox’s file structure allows multiple people to contribute — and lessens the version handoffs.
    Caitlin White, Variety, 23 Jan. 2026
  • Finally, hyaluronic acid lessens the appearance of fine lines—which are more prominent when skin is thirsty.
    Sophie Wirt, InStyle, 21 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Let go of whatever impedes your growth.
    Georgia Nicols, Denver Post, 20 Dec. 2025
  • During the meeting, Amy Flottemesch, president of the Cincinnati Food Truck Association, said the curfew impedes food truck owners’ ability to do business, which relies on late-night crowds.
    David Ferrara, Cincinnati Enquirer, 12 Nov. 2025
Verb
  • Don't tail large vehicles closely - Trucks or buses can kick up a water spray that obstructs visibility.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 6 Jan. 2026
  • Don't tail large vehicles closely - Trucks or buses can kick up a water spray that obstructs visibility.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 30 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • The Hatch Act restricts federal employees from engaging in certain political activities.
    Raven Brunner, PEOPLE, 22 Jan. 2026
  • In April of last year, the House passed the No Rogue Rulings Act, which restricts the ability of judges to block federal policies nationwide.
    Rachel Schilke, The Washington Examiner, 21 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Maintain a safe distance from large vehicles - Trucks or buses can produce a water spray that hampers visibility.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 10 Jan. 2026
  • Maintain a safe distance from large vehicles - Trucks or buses can produce a water spray that hampers visibility.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 7 Jan. 2026
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.

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Cite this Entry

“Narrows.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/narrows. Accessed 24 Jan. 2026.

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