contraction

noun

the act of decreasing (something) in size or volume or quantity or scope

a word formed from two or more words by omitting or combining some sounds

the process or result of becoming smaller or pressed together

(physiology) a shortening or tensing of a part or organ (especially of a muscle or muscle fiber)

Roots

trahotract- · Latin · draw, pull

Synonyms for contraction

constrictionn deflationn weakeningn crasis diminutionn

Synonyms & related words for contraction

Find synonyms, related words, and the definition of contraction — including constriction, deflation, weakening, crasis, diminution. Dendril is a free visual thesaurus that shows them on an interactive map where stronger matches sit closer to the center — no signup, no ads.

Words related to contraction

Explore words related to contraction — words associated with it, words that go with it, and its nearest matches in meaning. Related words include contractional, extrasystolic, laxator, hippus, synecphonesis, metachrosis, systaltic, contractive. Click any word to make it the center of the map and keep exploring the web of connections.

Synonyms for contraction

Common synonyms for contraction include constriction, deflation, weakening, crasis, diminution — words that share a close meaning. Hover or tap any word on the map for its definition and part of speech.

Where does contraction come from?

The word contraction breaks down into one root of Latin origin: the root tract-, from Latin traho (“draw, pull”). Explore each root to see other English words built from the same source.