constrict
Americanverb
-
to make smaller or narrower, esp by contracting at one place
-
to hold in or inhibit; limit
Other Word Forms
- nonconstricted adjective
- nonconstricting adjective
- unconstricted adjective
- well-constricted adjective
Etymology
Origin of constrict
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
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Tracy said he wanted to respect the source material, but without feeling constricted by it.
From Barron's
Formally known as CM2502, Porkchop got her nickname when she chowed down shortly after losing her front right flipper, which was severely constricted by fishing line.
From Los Angeles Times
In contrast, exposure to bright light allows the pupil to constrict in response to brightness rather than focusing distance, helping maintain healthier retinal stimulation.
From Science Daily
Tina explains the appeal comes from the fact that the "cold exposure causes blood vessels to constrict, which can reduce swelling".
From BBC
The album capped a lengthy, constricting record label contract that Charli had been trying to optimize for years, to varying success.
From Salon
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
