constrict

verb

kən-ˈstrikt How to pronounce constrict (audio)
Definition of constrictnext
1
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
2
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

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 constrict The cold water can constrict the blood vessels, which can lead to a decrease in blood flow to the heart. —Maryal Miller Carter, USA Today, 20 June 2025 This stress response constricts blood vessels and accelerates heart rate, which can contribute to blood pressure spikes. 7. —Kathleen Ferraro, Verywell Health, 11 June 2025 The ordinance cannot constrict legal possession, purchase or use of firearms in accordance with Indiana law, the state constitution or the U.S. constitution. —Maya Wilkins, Chicago Tribune, 6 June 2025 This is a circle of blue fire that constricts as each Day passes. —Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 3 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for constrict
Recent Examples of Synonyms for constrict
  1. shrink
  2. compress
  3. condense
  4. squeeze
Verb
  • The good news is that the potential to compound one’s wealth grows by the day as the world shrinks by the day through commercial advances that reach greater and greater numbers of people.
    — John Tamny, Forbes.com, 12 July 2025
  • Since Captain Cook had first arrived on the island, in 1769, measles, pneumonia, influenza, and syphilis had shrunk the population from around two hundred thousand to eight thousand.
    — Alexandra Schwartz, New Yorker, 11 July 2025
Definition of shrink
Verb
  • It's considered lossless to the eye, but the signal is actually compressed at a 3:1 ratio.
    — PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 13 July 2025
  • However, extreme space weather events may compress – or in some cases, peel back – the Earth’s magnetic shield.
    — Mojtaba Akhavan-Tafti, The Conversation, 11 July 2025
Definition of compress
Verb
  • This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
    — Nick Vivarelli, Variety, 11 July 2025
  • The conversation has been slightly edited and condensed for clarity.
    — Emma Sandler, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025
Definition of condense
Verb
  • Kalvin Phillips squeezes a pass through the gap and into Omari Hutchinson, taking three Forest players out of the game.
    — Thom Harris, New York Times, 11 July 2025
  • Marlene alleged her son grabbed and started to squeeze her throat.
    — Christine Pelisek, People.com, 11 July 2025
Definition of squeeze

Browse Nearby Words

constraints
constrict
constricted
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Cite this Entry

“Constrict.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/constrict. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.

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