compression

noun

com·​pres·​sion kəm-ˈpre-shən How to pronounce compression (audio)
1
a
: the act, process, or result of compressing
b
: the state of being compressed
2
: the process of compressing the fuel mixture in a cylinder of an internal combustion engine (as in an automobile)
3
: the compressed remains of a fossil plant
4
: conversion (as of data, a data file, or a communications signal) in order to reduce the space occupied or bandwidth required
compressional
kəm-ˈpresh-nəl How to pronounce compression (audio)
-ˈpre-shə-nᵊl
adjective

Examples of compression in a Sentence

the compression of a long, complicated story into a two-hour movie is never easy
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Balls with compression of 90 and higher are suitable for advanced players. Bestreviews, The Mercury News, 13 Mar. 2025 In addition to being both lightweight and quick drying, the material also provides gentle compression for an overall smooth appearance. Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 13 Mar. 2025 Compress the chest 1/3 to 1/2 of its width at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Faisal Kutty, Newsweek, 12 Mar. 2025 It’s made from soft, sweat-wicking fabric that’s breathable and lightweight without ever pilling, while the fit falls gently over your frame without compression. Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 12 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for compression

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of compression was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Compression.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/compression. Accessed 20 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

compression

noun
com·​pres·​sion kəm-ˈpresh-ən How to pronounce compression (audio)
1
: the act, process, or result of compressing : the state of being compressed
2
: the process of compressing the fuel mixture in the cylinders of an internal-combustion engine
compressional adjective

Medical Definition

compression

noun
com·​pres·​sion kəm-ˈpresh-ən How to pronounce compression (audio)
: the act, process, or result of compressing especially when involving a compressing force on a bodily part
compression of an artery by forceps
compression of the brain by the bones of a depressed fracture

More from Merriam-Webster on compression

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