constrict

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of constrict are compress, condense, contract, deflate, and shrink. While all these words mean "to decrease in bulk or volume," constrict implies a tightening that reduces diameter.

the throat is constricted by a tight collar

Where would compress be a reasonable alternative to constrict?

Although the words compress and constrict have much in common, compress implies a pressing into a small compass and definite shape usually against resistance.

compressed cotton into bales

When is condense a more appropriate choice than constrict?

The words condense and constrict can be used in similar contexts, but condense implies a reducing of something homogeneous to greater compactness without significant loss of content.

condense the essay into a paragraph

When could contract be used to replace constrict?

In some situations, the words contract and constrict are roughly equivalent. However, 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 constrict?

The words deflate and constrict are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, deflate implies a contracting by reducing the internal pressure of contained air or gas.

deflate the balloon

When might shrink be a better fit than constrict?

The meanings of shrink and constrict largely overlap; 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 constrict During the tussle, Ventura put the teen in a chokehold, constricting his breathing, police said. Thomas Tracy, New York Daily News, 21 Mar. 2025 Our heart rate increases, our respiratory rate increases, our blood vessels constrict. Erin Brodwin, Axios, 17 Mar. 2025 Cooling the eye area can help constrict blood vessels, reducing puffiness, dark circles, and inflammation while also easing eye strain. Siena Gagliano, Allure, 13 Mar. 2025 The layoffs come amid a constricting marketplace that has put independent studios like Lionsgate in a tough spot. Ethan Shanfeld, Variety, 7 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for constrict
Recent Examples of Synonyms for constrict
Verb
  • These sprays shrink the blood vessels in your nasal passages.
    Andrea Muraskin, NPR, 19 Apr. 2025
  • The number shrank during Italy’s postwar economic boom as residents moved to the mainland for more modern housing — including indoor plumbing, which was lacking in Venice.
    Colleen Barry, Los Angeles Times, 18 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • The song is deliberately compressed to sound like a Phil Spector track, and a video John made for the Gilbert O’Sullivan Show in 1973 features a rare cameo from Bernie mimicking Ray Cooper on bells.
    Shana Naomi Krochmal, Vulture, 4 Apr. 2025
  • Many of them focus on radically new technologies for heating and compressing plasmas, or fusing unusual combinations of isotopes.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 1 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • All responses have been edited and condensed for clarity.
    Liza B. Zimmerman, Forbes.com, 18 Apr. 2025
  • This article has been edited and condensed for clarity and brevity.
    Nick Romano, EW.com, 18 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • For years, researchers have been experimenting with quantization techniques that squeeze their neural network weights into smaller memory envelopes.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 18 Apr. 2025
  • Consumer confidence has taken a nosedive in 2025 as Americans grow more concerned that inflation could spike again, and tariffs will squeeze their wallets.
    Austin Denean, Baltimore Sun, 18 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Constrict.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/constrict. Accessed 25 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on constrict

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