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Constrict: meaning, definitions and examples

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constrict

 

[ kənˈstrɪkt ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

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 | Verb

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

Etymology

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.

See also: strict, strictly, strictness.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,666, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.