compress

verb

kəm-ˈpres How to pronounce compress (audio)
Definition of compressnext
1
as in to condense
to reduce in size or volume by or as if by pressing parts or members together a science textbook that compresses a lot of information about human reproduction into a few short chapters

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2
as in to shrink
to become smaller in size or volume through the drawing together of particles of matter the substance can compress under pressure

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Some common synonyms of compress are condense, constrict, contract, deflate, and shrink. While all these words mean "to decrease in bulk or volume," compress implies a pressing into a small compass and definite shape usually against resistance.

compressed cotton into bales

When might condense be a better fit than compress?

While the synonyms condense and compress are close in meaning, condense implies a reducing of something homogeneous to greater compactness without significant loss of content.

condense the essay into a paragraph

When is it sensible to use constrict instead of compress?

The words constrict and compress can be used in similar contexts, but constrict implies a tightening that reduces diameter.

the throat is constricted by a tight collar

When could contract be used to replace compress?

While in some cases nearly identical to compress, 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 compress?

Although the words deflate and compress have much in common, deflate implies a contracting by reducing the internal pressure of contained air or gas.

deflate the balloon

When would shrink be a good substitute for compress?

In some situations, the words shrink and compress are roughly equivalent. 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 compress Typically, a garbage truck driver will compress the truck's load if fire is seen, starving the flames of oxygen and often putting the fire out. — Ars Technica, 20 Feb. 2025 In court, his lawyers argued that officers compressed his chest with their body weight, leading him to asphyxiate. — Sharon Bernstein, Sacramento Bee, 6 Mar. 2025 Short bursts around the black hole are likely caused by disturbances in the disk—compressing plasma to produce a temporary flash of radiation. — Tommy Tuberville, Newsweek, 6 Mar. 2025 In the case of mammoths, the company argues that having mammoth-like creatures lumbering through the Arctic would compress the snow and grass that insulates the ground, slowing the rate of permafrost thaw and the release of carbon contained in this fragile ecosystem. — Katie Hunt, CNN, 4 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for compress
Recent Examples of Synonyms for compress
  1. condense
  2. shrink
  3. squeeze
Verb
  • This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
    — Irene Kim, Vogue, 14 Mar. 2025
  • This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity and length.
    — Ritesh Mehta, IndieWire, 12 Mar. 2025
Definition of condense
Verb
  • Too much laundering can wear out, fade, or shrink fabrics before their time.
    — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 14 Mar. 2025
  • The world needs a solution where advanced cases are either wiped out or shrunk big-time through successful early action.
    — Hilary Tetenbaum, USA TODAY, 13 Mar. 2025
Definition of shrink
Verb
  • Tension headaches are the most common type, and can feel like a band is squeezing your forehead, with pain extending to your scalp and neck, per the US National Library of Medicine.
    — Korin Miller, SELF, 13 Mar. 2025
  • Instead of mechanical rollers, this mask uses inflating and deflating mechanisms to gently squeeze around your eyes and temples, creating a rhythmic, pulse-like massage.
    — Siena Gagliano, Allure, 13 Mar. 2025
Definition of squeeze

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Cite this Entry

“Compress.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/compress. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

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