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

The large nonvenomous constrictor captures its prey by ambushing it before coiling around it. —Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 25 Oct. 2024

It is assumed that these pythons, like other large constrictors, do not differentiate between prey types once a target has been subdued, leading to such rare attacks on humans. —Scott Travers, Forbes, 29 Sep. 2024

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

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