constrict

verb con·strict \kən-ˈstrikt\

: to make (something) narrower, smaller, or tighter

: to become narrower, smaller, or tighter

: to prevent or keep (something or someone) from developing freely

Full Definition of CONSTRICT

transitive verb

a : to make narrow or draw together

b : compress, squeeze <constrict a nerve>

: to stultify, stop, or cause to falter : inhibit

intransitive verb

: to become constricted

— con·stric·tive \-ˈstrik-tiv\ adjective

See constrict defined for English-language learners

See constrict defined for kids

Origin of CONSTRICT

Latin constrictus, past participle of constringere

First Known Use: 1732

Related to CONSTRICT

Synonyms: compress, condense, contract, shrink

Antonyms: balloon, expand, snowball, swell

Synonym Discussion of CONSTRICT

contract, shrink, condense, compress, constrict, deflate mean to decrease in bulk or volume. contract applies to a drawing together of surfaces or particles or a reduction of area or length <caused her muscles to contract>. shrink implies a contracting or a loss of material and stresses a falling short of original dimensions <the sweater will shrink when washed>. condense implies a reducing of something homogeneous to greater compactness without significant loss of content <condense the essay into a paragraph>. compress implies a pressing into a small compass and definite shape usually against resistance <compressed cotton into bales>. constrict implies a tightening that reduces diameter <the throat is constricted by a tight collar>. deflate implies a contracting by reducing the internal pressure of contained air or gas <deflate the balloon>.

Rhymes with CONSTRICT

addict, afflict, conflict, convict, delict, depict, district, edict, evict, inflict, lipsticked, predict, restrict, unlicked, verdict

CONSTRICTED Defined for Kids

constrict

verb con·strict \kən-ˈstrikt\

con·strict·edcon·strict·ing

Definition of CONSTRICT for Kids

: to make narrower, smaller, or tighter by drawing together : squeeze <The coldness inside of him had moved upward into his throat constricting it. — Katherine Paterson, Bridge to Terabithia>

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