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Compressible Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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compressible

[kəmˈprɛsəbəl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

in physics

Capable of being compressed or reduced in size, volume, or extent.

Synonyms

compactible, contractible.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
compressible

Used when describing materials or substances that can be made smaller by applying pressure. Commonly utilized in scientific and engineering contexts.

  • The gas in the container is highly compressible under pressure.
  • Foam is a compressible material.
compactible

Describes substances that can be compressed into a smaller volume, usually to make them denser or more solid. Often used in contexts involving soil, trash, or similar materials.

  • The soil in the garden is very compactible, making it great for planting.
  • The machine helps in making trash more compactible.

Examples of usage

  • The gas is highly compressible under pressure.
  • The material is very compressible and can be easily molded into different shapes.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In physics, certain gases are considered compressible since you can reduce their volume significantly by applying pressure.
  • Compressibility is a key concept in understanding how substances behave under different conditions, such as temperature and pressure.

Technology

  • File sizes can also be compressed using algorithms, making digital storage more efficient.
  • Many video and audio formats use compression techniques to reduce file size without losing much quality.

Engineering

  • In civil engineering, compressible materials like certain soils are studied for their behavior under loads, affecting building foundations.
  • Understanding the compressibility of materials helps engineers design safer and more effective structures.

Literature

  • Some authors use compression in their writing style, conveying deep messages in few words, enhancing impact.
  • The idea of compressing thoughts and emotions also appears in poetry, where brevity often intensifies meaning.

Origin of 'compressible'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'compressible' comes from the Latin 'comprimere,' which means 'to press together.'
  • It was first used in English in the early 19th century to describe materials that can change size under pressure.

The word 'compressible' originated from the verb 'compress', which comes from the Latin word 'compressus', past participle of 'comprimere' meaning 'to press together'. The suffix '-ible' is used to form adjectives indicating capacity or ability. Therefore, 'compressible' describes the ability of something to be compressed.

See also: compress, compressed, compression, compressor, compressors, decompress, decompressing, uncompress.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,318, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.