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.

The banks are expected to see soft top line growth in the year ahead, due to slower loan growth and contraction in net interest margins.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 25, 2026

Readings above 50 indicate expansion in the economy, while less than 50 indicates contraction.

From Barron's • May 24, 2026

In this view, the Big Bang evolved from conditions in a preceding contraction.

From Science Daily • May 22, 2026

This is supported by Citic Bank’s smaller contraction in net interest margin, balanced revenue structure and steady credit costs, the ratings company says.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 21, 2026

He smiled, but it was merely a muscle contraction.

From "The City Beautiful" by Aden Polydoros

Vocabulary lists containing contraction

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