contraction

noun

kən-ˈtrak-shən How to pronounce contraction (audio)
Definition of contractionnext
as in compression
the act or process of reducing the size or volume of something by or as if by pressing most substances undergo contraction when cooled

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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 contraction The Atlanta Fed is predicting a contraction in the U.S. economy for the first quarter of this year. — Tobias Burns, The Hill, 4 Mar. 2025 Local concerns have only grown over the last few years as work became even more scarce due to work stoppages from a global pandemic and historically, long dual strikes, followed by a massive, global contraction in production spending. — Katie Campione, Deadline, 27 Feb. 2025 And the ingestion of baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, a legal technique that helps buffer acidity and neutralize interference with muscle contractions, is also widely used for short, intense races like the mile. — Jeré Longman, New York Times, 26 Feb. 2025 Now that the battle is over and the fire hose of content has been dialled back, industry observers and TV lovers alike are left wondering what kind of programming this new era of contraction will bring. — Shauna Lyon, The New Yorker, 28 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for contraction
Recent Examples of Synonyms for contraction
  1. compression
  2. condensation
  3. squeeze
  4. constriction
Noun
  • 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
Definition of compression
Noun
  • Their vacuum insulation prevents water condensation from accumulating and keeps your hands dry.
    — Lauren Wilrich, Miami Herald, 3 Mar. 2025
  • Anti-fog treatments or coatings help create a barrier between the warm air and the surface of the lenses, which prevents condensation buildup.
    — Maggie Slepian, Travel + Leisure, 24 Jan. 2025
Definition of condensation
Noun
  • Add a squeeze of lime and some cilantro for this fun take on supper.
    — Mary Alice Russell, Southern Living, 8 Mar. 2025
  • Either way, enjoy a side of potatoes cooked in red-tinged chorizo fat and shower each bite with a squeeze of fresh lime.
    — Edmund Tijerina, Bon Appétit, 27 Feb. 2025
Definition of squeeze
Noun
  • How To Treat Feline Asthma Common asthma treatment focuses on managing inflammation and preventing airway constriction through medications and environmental control, according to Richardson.
    — Matt Robison, Newsweek, 25 Feb. 2025
  • An autopsy showed that McLaughlin died from cerebral damage and constriction of the neck, the Associated Press reports.
    — KC Baker, People.com, 17 Feb. 2025
Definition of constriction

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“Contraction.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contraction. Accessed 22 Mar. 2025.

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