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.
Moore had surgery for a spinal compression on Tuesday, three days earlier. Howard Cohen, Miami Herald, 13 Jan. 2025 Wearing compression stockings, exercising regularly, protecting your skin from the sun, and taking frequent movement breaks throughout the day can all help reduce your risk. Laura Schober, Health, 12 Jan. 2025 Renard can be heard counting, doing what sounds like chest compressions. Natalie Morales, CBS News, 11 Jan. 2025 The carry-on also features shoe bags and internal compression systems, while the check-in includes packing cubes. Lois Alter Mark, Travel + Leisure, 10 Jan. 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

Dictionary Entries Near compression

Cite this Entry

“Compression.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/compression. Accessed 21 Jan. 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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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