condense

[kuhn-dens]

verb (used with object)

condensed, condensing 

1. to make more dense or compact; reduce the volume or extent of; concentrate.

   Synonyms: consolidate, compress
   Antonyms: expand

2. to reduce to a shorter form; abridge.

   Condense your answer into a few words.

   Synonyms: abbreviate, abstract, epitomize, digest

3. to reduce to another and denser form, as a gas or vapor to a liquid or solid state.

verb (used without object)

condensed, condensing 

1. to become denser or more compact or concentrated.

2. to reduce a book, speech, statement, or the like, to a shorter form.

3. to become liquid or solid, as a gas or vapor.

   The steam condensed into droplets.

condense

/ kənˈdɛns /

verb

1. (tr) to increase the density of; compress

2. to reduce or be reduced in volume or size; make or become more compact

3. to change or cause to change from a gaseous to a liquid or solid state

4. chem to undergo or cause to undergo condensation

Other Word Forms

• overcondense verb
• precondense verb
• recondense verb
• uncondensing adjective
• condensable adjective
• condensability noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of condense¹

First recorded in 1475–85; from Middle French condenser, from Latin condēnsāre, from con- con- + dēnsāre “to thicken,” verb derivative of dēnsus dense

Word History and Origins

Origin of condense¹

C15: from Latin condēnsāre, from dēnsāre to make thick, from dēnsus _dense

Synonym Study

See contract.

Example Sentences

The majesty of a glorious heritage brand condensed into an opulent storefront.

From Los Angeles Times

There's just so many more options, whereas it feels very condensed for the Chiefs.

From BBC

“I know the tenants, they may think it might be inconvenient for them, but in condensed areas, the city allows it and they need it, they encourage it.”

From Los Angeles Times

That’s where her mottos come in — short, memorable phrases that condensed technique into a moment you could carry from the screen to your own kitchen.

From Salon

This interview was conducted in Spanish, translated, edited and condensed for clarity.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• compress 
• curtail 
• shorten 
• summarize 
• thicken