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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Recent Examples of contraction
The measure has been below 50, which indicates contraction, for 10 straight months.
—
Reade Pickert Bloomberg, Arkansas Online, 6 Jan. 2026
And Hollywood’s contraction, with its mass unemployment, affects everything here from schools to restaurants to small businesses.
—Lauren Bans, Vulture, 5 Jan. 2026
These issues also saw nearby states such as Maryland and Virginia also pulled toward contraction.
—Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 2 Jan. 2026
Van der Velden understands why the idea of a synthetic performer unsettled people, especially in a business already raw from layoffs, strikes and contraction.
—Josh Rottenberg, Twin Cities, 31 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for contraction
Recent Examples of Synonyms for contraction
Noun
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This impressive deal only applies to the six-piece set, which includes five compression packing cubes and one drawstring bag in select colors.—
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Shortly after, viewers see chest compressions being performed on Jo as Link (Chris Carmack) prays in a church surrounded by candles.—
Noun
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Hassan’s team instead squeezed a photon’s intensity and demonstrated real-time control, fluctuating between intensity and phase-squeezing by adjusting the silica’s position relative to the beams.—
Noun
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The mayor’s team should infuse job quality considerations throughout the contracting process, including working extensively with procurement officials.—
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Is the company expanding or contracting?—
Noun
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Garages are also more prone to moisture fluctuations, which can cause condensation and, in turn, lead to rusting or mold growth.—
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Covering your windows properly helps maintain a more stable indoor temperature, minimizing condensation buildup on windows.—
Noun
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Costs and revenue squeeze Pressure on both costs and revenues remains the sector’s major obstacle.—
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To balance the flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice.—
Noun
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The constriction leads to spikes in blood pressure and heightens a diabetic person’s risk of heart disease.—
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These kinds of vessels are, then, more prone to constriction, upping your risk for a blockage.—
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Cite this Entry
“Contraction.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contraction. Accessed 20 Jan. 2026.
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