Compressed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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compressed

[kəmˈprɛst ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

data/file

Reduced in size or volume by pressure; condensed.

Synonyms

compact, concentrated, condensed, squeezed.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
compressed	Used when something is pressed together to reduce its size or volume, often in a technical or mechanical context. The file was compressed to save disk space. The gas was compressed in the cylinder.
condensed	Used when a text or substance is made shorter or denser. Common in literature or cooking. The novel was condensed into a shorter version for children. They used condensed milk for the recipe.
squeezed	Implies that something is being pressed from all sides, often by hand. Can also have a negative connotation when referring to tight or stressful situations. She squeezed the lemon to get the juice. He felt squeezed by the tight deadline.
compact	Refers to something small and efficiently arranged, often used for items that are designed to be space-saving. The compact car is perfect for city driving. He bought a compact laptop for traveling.
concentrated	Describes a substance that has had water or other diluting agents removed, making it stronger or more potent. Often used in chemistry or food contexts. She added a few drops of concentrated orange juice to the glass of water. The study focused on concentrated areas of research.

Examples of usage

The file was compressed to save disk space.
The data was compressed before transmission.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

air/gas

To cause (a gas or gaseous mixture) to become liquid.

Synonyms

compact, concentrate, condense, squeeze.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
compressed	Typically used to describe something that has been pressed into a smaller shape or space. Often used in digital contexts or to describe physical objects. The file was compressed to save storage space The sponge is compressed when you squeeze it
condense	Often used to refer to reducing something in size or volume while keeping the essential parts. Commonly used in writing or scientific contexts. The author had to condense the article to meet the word limit Water vapor will condense on the cool surface
squeeze	Describes the action of applying pressure to extract juice, paste, or to fit something into a tight space. Can have a mildly negative connotation if used metaphorically. She squeezed the lemon to get fresh juice During rush hour, everyone had to squeeze into the crowded train
compact	Describes something that is small, efficiently packed, or tightly arranged. Often used for physical items or spaces. She bought a compact car to easily navigate the city The compact design of the smartphone makes it easy to carry
concentrate	Used when referring to making a substance denser or when focusing one's attention. Can apply to liquids, efforts, or thoughts. You need to concentrate the juice by boiling it He couldn't concentrate on his homework because of the noise

Examples of usage

The air is compressed in the compressor.
He compressed the gas to store it more efficiently.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

In physics, 'compressed' often refers to the decrease in volume of gases under pressure.
Materials can often change their properties when compressed, influencing their density and strength.
Compression is a key principle in thermodynamics and plays a crucial role in engines and refrigeration.

Technology

Data compression is a technique used to reduce the size of files, making them easier to store and transmit.
Common compression formats include ZIP, JPEG, and MP3, which help save space without losing too much quality.
Cloud storage services often use compression to optimize the amount of data being stored and transferred.

Cultural Context

In architecture, compressed spaces can create a sense of coziness, making smaller areas feel more intimate.
Compressed modern art often plays with the concept of space, presenting forms in unusual, compact arrangements.
In writing, compression is used to convey complex ideas succinctly, an important skill in storytelling.

Psychology

The concept of emotional compression refers to the mental process of bottling up feelings instead of expressing them.
This can lead to stress or anxiety, illustrating the need for balance between compression and expression.
Techniques like mindfulness can help decompress emotional pressure and promote mental health.

Origin of 'compressed'

Main points about word origin

The word originates from the Latin 'compressus,' meaning pressed together.
It entered the English language in the 15th century, linked to the notion of pressure.
Compound words like 'compressed air' show how the term is used in different contexts.

The word 'compressed' originated from the Latin word 'compressus', which is the past participle of 'comprimere', meaning 'to press together'. The term has been used in English since the early 15th century, initially referring to the action of pressing or compacting something. Over time, 'compressed' has evolved to also describe the reduction in size or volume through pressure, especially in the context of data and gases.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,046 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

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