constrictor

noun

con·​stric·​tor kən-ˈstrik-tər 

1

: a muscle that contracts a cavity or orifice or compresses an organ

2

: a snake (such as a boa constrictor) that coils around and compresses prey

3

: one that constricts

Examples of constrictor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Here in Puerto Rico, however, invasive constrictors have no natural predators and few competitors. —Benji Jones, Vox, 21 May 2024

Native bird, rabbit, raccoon and deer populations have been decimated, and even gators have fallen prey to the constrictors. —CBS News, 18 Sep. 2024

One of the largest snakes in the world, the Burmese python is a nonvenomous constrictor found primarily in and around the Everglades ecosystem in south Florida. —Lauren Ferrer, Sun Sentinel, 29 July 2024

Staff Pick: Boa constrictor who has lived alone births 14 baby snakes Baby rainbow boa constrictors from Ronaldo. —Elizabeth Robinson, NBC News, 3 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1735, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing constrictor

• boa constrictor

Kids Definition

constrictor

noun

con·​stric·​tor kən-ˈstrik-tər 

: a snake that kills its prey by coiling around and crushing it

Medical Definition

constrictor

noun

con·​stric·​tor -ˈstrik-tər 

: a muscle that contracts a cavity or orifice or compresses an organ see inferior constrictor, middle constrictor, superior constrictor