Definitions

contraction

[kuhn-trak-shuhn] / kənˈtræk ʃən /

NOUN

drawing in; shortening

Synonyms

STRONGEST

decrease deflation recession reduction shrinkage

STRONG

abbreviation abridgment compression condensation condensing confinement constriction curtailment diminution dwindling elision evaporation lessening narrowing omission receding reducing shrinking tightening withdrawal

WEAK

abbreviating abridging confining curtailing cutting down decreasing deflating diminishing drawing together evaporating lopping omitting shrivelling tensing withdrawing

Antonyms

STRONGEST

enlargement increase

STRONG

expansion opening

WEAK

amplification dilation extension lengthening spread stretch

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Contraction is a dirty word in the journalism industry, which generally believes having more outlets is better for the public interest.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 8, 2025

Contraction reduced the number of teams to 10.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 4, 2022

Contraction and relaxation of smooth muscles mixes the stomach contents about every 20 minutes.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022

Contraction of the tibialis anterior is not the most important aspect of the reflex, as continuation of plantar flexion will result in further damage from stepping onto the tack.

From Textbooks • Jun. 19, 2013

I say little Contraction: for they are nobly and sincerely pathetic.

From Samuel Richardson's Introduction to Pamela by Baker, Sheridan Warner

Vocabulary lists containing contraction

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