Constrict: meaning, definitions and examples

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constrict

[ kənˈstrɪkt ]

^{Context #1}

to limit

Constrict means to make narrower, to tighten, or to restrict. It can refer to physically tightening something, such as a muscle or a rope, or to metaphorically limiting something, such as freedom or options.

Synonyms

limit, restrict, tighten

Examples of usage

He constricted his grip on the steering wheel as he navigated the sharp turn.
The company's budget cuts have constricted our ability to innovate.
The snake constricted its prey, squeezing the life out of it.

^{Context #2}

to cause discomfort

Constrict can also mean to cause discomfort or a sensation of tightness. It is often used to describe a feeling of being suffocated or constricted, such as in a tight space or due to anxiety.

Synonyms

constrain, squeeze, suffocate

Examples of usage

The tight collar constricted his breathing.
She felt constricted by the crowded room and needed to step outside for fresh air.

Translations

Translations of the word "constrict" in other languages:

🇵🇹 constranger

🇮🇳 संकीर्ण करना

🇩🇪 einschränken

🇮🇩 menyempitkan

🇺🇦 звужувати

🇵🇱 ograniczać

🇯🇵 圧迫する (あっぱくする)

🇫🇷 constricter

🇪🇸 constriñir

🇹🇷 daraltmak

🇰🇷 제한하다

🇸🇦 تقييد

🇨🇿 omezit

🇸🇰 obmedziť

🇨🇳 收缩

🇸🇮 omejiti

🇮🇸 þrengja

🇰🇿 шектеу

🇬🇪 შეზღუდვა

🇦🇿 məhdudlaşdırmaq

🇲🇽 constriñir

Word origin

The word 'constrict' comes from the Latin word 'constrictus', past participle of 'constringere', which means 'to draw together, to bind tightly'. The term has been used in the English language since the 15th century, evolving from its Latin roots to its current meaning of tightening or restricting.