/kɒnˈtɹæk.ʃən/► audioScrabble 15Words With Friends 19
Definition
noun (physiology) a shortening or tensing of a part or organ (especially of a muscle or muscle fiber).
— synonyms: muscular_contraction, muscle_contraction
noun the process or result of becoming smaller or pressed together.
— synonyms: compression, condensation
noun a word formed from two or more words by omitting or combining some sounds.
noun the act of decreasing (something) in size or volume or quantity or scope.
Examples
“The country's economic contraction was caused by high oil prices.”
“In English didn't, that's, and wanna, the endings -n't, -'s, and -a arose by contraction.”