CONSTRICT Synonyms: 59 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'constrict' different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of constrict are compress , condense , contract , deflate , and shrink . While all these words mean "to decrease in bulk or volume," constrict implies a tightening that reduces diameter. // the throat is constricted by a tight collar

Q: Where would 'compress' be a reasonable alternative to 'constrict'?

Although the words compress and constrict have much in common, compress implies a pressing into a small compass and definite shape usually against resistance. // compressed cotton into bales

Q: When is 'condense' a more appropriate choice than 'constrict'?

The words condense and constrict can be used in similar contexts, but condense implies a reducing of something homogeneous to greater compactness without significant loss of content. // condense the essay into a paragraph

Q: When could 'contract' be used to replace 'constrict'?

In some situations, the words contract and constrict are roughly equivalent. However, contract applies to a drawing together of surfaces or particles or a reduction of area or length. // caused her muscles to contract

Q: In what contexts can 'deflate' take the place of 'constrict'?

The words deflate and constrict are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, deflate implies a contracting by reducing the internal pressure of contained air or gas. // deflate the balloon

Q: When might 'shrink' be a better fit than 'constrict'?

The meanings of shrink and constrict largely overlap; however, shrink implies a contracting or a loss of material and stresses a falling short of original dimensions. // the sweater will shrink when washed

constrict

verb

kən-ˈstrikt

Definition of constrict next

as in to shrink

to become smaller in size or volume through the drawing together of particles of matter the vessel constricted, thereby reducing the flow of blood

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to compress

to reduce in size or volume by or as if by pressing parts or members together constricted the opening with a clamp

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word constrict different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of constrict are compress, condense, contract, deflate, and shrink. While all these words mean "to decrease in bulk or volume," constrict implies a tightening that reduces diameter.

the throat is constricted by a tight collar

Where would compress be a reasonable alternative to constrict?

Although the words compress and constrict have much in common, compress implies a pressing into a small compass and definite shape usually against resistance.

compressed cotton into bales

When is condense a more appropriate choice than constrict?

The words condense and constrict can be used in similar contexts, but condense implies a reducing of something homogeneous to greater compactness without significant loss of content.

condense the essay into a paragraph

When could contract be used to replace constrict?

In some situations, the words contract and constrict are roughly equivalent. However, contract applies to a drawing together of surfaces or particles or a reduction of area or length.

caused her muscles to contract

In what contexts can deflate take the place of constrict?

The words deflate and constrict are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, deflate implies a contracting by reducing the internal pressure of contained air or gas.

deflate the balloon

When might shrink be a better fit than constrict?

The meanings of shrink and constrict largely overlap; however, shrink implies a contracting or a loss of material and stresses a falling short of original dimensions.

the sweater will shrink when washed

Examples 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 constrict This lightweight athletic top is designed for workouts like yoga, pilates, or barre, and won’t feel constricting. —

Kelsey Glennon, Travel + Leisure, 20 Oct. 2024 The administration has mobilized a phalanx of federal regulatory agencies to pass new rules aimed at both destroying U.S. demand and constricting future domestic production of hydrocarbons. —

Paul Tice, National Review, 2 Oct. 2024 The fabric is flexible and buttery-soft and moves with me in a way that doesn't feel constricting. —

Ali Faccenda, People.com, 19 Oct. 2024 The shirt hugs nicely without feeling constricting and hits at the waist, ever-flattering. —

Annie Blackman, Allure, 7 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for constrict

Recent Examples of Synonyms for constrict

Verb

As their territory shrinks, saolas are forced into smaller, isolated populations, reducing their chances to find mates and maintain the genetic diversity necessary for survival.

Scott Travers, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024
The pizza chain saw its international same-store sales shrink 6%, while U.S. same-store sales fell just 1%.

Amelia Lucas, CNBC, 5 Nov. 2024