constrict

[kuhn-strikt]

verb (used with object)

1. to draw or press in; cause to contract or shrink; compress.

   Synonyms: tighten, bind, squeeze, cramp
   Antonyms: expand

2. to slow or stop the natural course or development of.

   Greed and aggressiveness constricted the nation's cultural life.

constrict

/ kənˈstrɪkt /

verb

1. to make smaller or narrower, esp by contracting at one place

2. to hold in or inhibit; limit

Other Word Forms

• nonconstricted adjective
• nonconstricting adjective
• unconstricted adjective
• well-constricted adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of constrict¹

1375–1425 for earlier past participle sense; 1725–35 for current senses; late Middle English < Latin constrīctus (past participle of constringere to draw together, tie up), equivalent to con- con- + strīc- (variant stem of stringere to tie; strict ) + -tus past participle suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of constrict¹

C18: from Latin constrictus compressed, from constringere to tie up together; see _constrain

Example Sentences

Tom Parker constricted Presley’s artistic growth by parking him in the city of buffet tables rather than letting him tour the world.

From Los Angeles Times

Bo has supported herself in the constricted economy as a caregiver.

From Los Angeles Times

On the Westside, the debris removal has been complicated by the constricted roads in and out of the burn zone.

From Los Angeles Times

“Because Netflix relies on advertising less than most of its competitors do, in some ways it will be less exposed to tariffs that constrict upfront commitments,” said Ross Benes, senior analyst at research firm EMarketer.

From Los Angeles Times

That it wasn’t McDonald’s mismatched qualities on display but the reality of a Black Rose who has had to adapt herself in constricted ways until better opportunities come her way.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• circumscribe 
• compress 
• cramp