Shrunk: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when something has become smaller in size, often due to external factors like washing or drying clothes.

• My sweater shrunk in the wash.
• The balloon shrunk after being left out overnight.

Typically used for formal or technical contexts, such as scientific references to muscles or in legal and business agreements.

• The muscle contracted during exercise.
• The company contracted a new supplier for materials.

Used when the reduction in size, importance, or value is often gradual and can have a slightly negative connotation.

• His influence in the company has diminished over time.
• The pain gradually diminished after taking the medication.

General term for any situation where something goes down in number, amount, or size. Suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

• The population of the town has decreased over the past decade.
• She decreased her sugar intake for better health.

Commonly used to talk about prices or quantities that have been made smaller. It can be formal or informal.

• The store reduced the prices of all its items.
• Her stress levels were significantly reduced after the holiday.