Compact: meaning, definitions and examples

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compact

[ˈkɒmpækt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

electronics

Able to fit a large amount of information or data into a small space.

Synonyms

miniature, portable, small.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
compact	Used when something is small and efficiently designed or packed. Often applied to objects that save space or are designed to be easily carried. This compact camera fits easily into your pocket. We stayed in a compact apartment in the city center.
small	A general term to describe anything of limited size. Can be used in various contexts, ranging from physical objects to abstract concepts. They live in a small town. I need a small favor from you.
miniature	Refers to something that is very small, often as a small-scale version of something larger. Commonly used to describe models or replicas. He collects miniature cars. The artist crafted a beautiful miniature replica of the Eiffel Tower.
portable	Describes items that are easy to carry and transport. Often used for electronics or tools that can be moved with ease. This portable charger is a lifesaver when you're traveling. The portable speaker has a long battery life.

Examples of usage

The new compact camera has a lot of advanced features.
This compact disk can store up to 700 MB of data.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

to make smaller

To compress or condense something in order to make it smaller or more efficient.

Synonyms

compress, condense, reduce.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
compact	This word is used to describe something that is small and efficiently designed or arranged. The car is compact and easy to park. She bought a compact camera for her trip.
compress	Typically used in technical or scientific contexts to indicate pressing or squeezing something to make it smaller in size or volume. You need to compress the file to send it via email. Compress the airbag tightly before closing the suitcase.
condense	Primarily used when talking about making something denser or more concentrated by removing unnecessary elements, often related to written or spoken information. She had to condense her speech to fit within the time limit. The author condensed the novel into a short story.
reduce	This word is commonly used to indicate making something smaller or less in amount, size, or degree. They aim to reduce waste in the factory. To save money, we decided to reduce our expenses.

Examples of usage

I need to compact my suitcase to fit all my clothes in.
She compacted the soil before planting the seeds.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

vehicle

A small car that is economical and easy to maneuver.

Synonyms

economical car, small car, subcompact.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
compact	Use this when referring to a small car that is designed to be space-efficient and easy to park, usually fitting into limited spaces without difficulty. The city is full of compact cars that can be parked almost anywhere. She bought a compact because it suited her urban lifestyle.
small car	This is a general term for any car that is below average in size; it’s useful when you want to highlight the car's overall compactness without specific focus. A small car is easier to maneuver through tight streets. She prefers driving a small car because it’s easier to handle.
economical car	Choose this term when emphasizing the car's ability to save money, particularly in terms of fuel efficiency or lower operating costs. He decided to buy an economical car to save on gas expenses. An economical car is perfect for those who commute long distances daily.
subcompact	Opt for this when referring to a very small car, usually even smaller than a compact, and typically categorized officially by car manufacturers. Subcompacts are gaining popularity among urban drivers. He drives a subcompact that fits perfectly in his apartment’s tiny garage.

Examples of usage

She drives a compact to work every day.
The compact gets great gas mileage.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'compactus', meaning 'pressed together'.
It entered the English language in the 14th century, originally used to describe things that are tightly packed.
In addition to physical size, it has also come to describe something that is full or rich in content.

Science

In chemistry, 'compact' can refer to molecules that are densely packed together in a solid state.
Astronomers use the term 'compact' to describe celestial bodies, like neutron stars, which are incredibly dense.
Compactness in data refers to how efficiently information is stored, particularly in computer science.

Cultural References

The term is often associated with compact cars, designed to be small and efficient for city driving.
In literature, the term can describe writing that is concise and to the point, making it powerful and effective.
The concept of 'compact living' has gained popularity in urban areas, focusing on sustainable, smaller living spaces.

Technology

Compact discs (CDs) revolutionized music and data storage in the late 20th century, representing a significant technological advance.
In recent years, compact smart devices have become essential, merging functionalities to save space and enhance portability.
Compact batteries, like those in smartphones, pack a lot of energy into small sizes, showcasing advances in energy storage technology.

Psychology

Studies have shown that clutter can lead to anxiety, making compact, organized spaces preferable for mental well-being.
The compactness of information presented can significantly affect comprehension and memory retention in learning environments.
Compact groups in social settings can enhance feelings of closeness and community among individuals.

Translations

Translations of the word "compact" in other languages:

🇵🇹 compacto

🇮🇳 संक्षिप्त

🇩🇪 kompakt

🇮🇩 kompak

🇺🇦 компактний

🇵🇱 kompaktowy

🇯🇵 コンパクト

🇫🇷 compact

🇪🇸 compacto

🇹🇷 kompakt

🇰🇷 콤팩트

🇸🇦 مضغوط

🇨🇿 kompaktní

🇸🇰 kompaktný

🇨🇳 紧凑的

🇸🇮 kompakten

🇮🇸 þéttur

🇰🇿 компакт

🇬🇪 კომპაქტური

🇦🇿 kompakt

🇲🇽 compacto

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,174, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.

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4171 march
4172 authorize
4173 decreases
4174 compact
4175 button
4176 purchasing
4177 intensive
...