compression
noun
com·pres·sion
kəm-ˈpre-shən 
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
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
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
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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
Cite this Entry
“Compression.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/compression. Accessed 19 Mar. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
compression
noun
com·pres·sion
kəm-ˈpresh-ən
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
Medical Definition
compression
noun
com·pres·sion
kəm-ˈpresh-ən
: 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
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