contraction

Definitions

The process of becoming smaller or shorter in size or volume.

A shortened form of a word or group of words, with the omitted letters often replaced by an apostrophe.

A periodic tightening of the uterine muscles during childbirth.

Examples

The word 'can't' is a common contraction of 'cannot'.

The sudden contraction of the muscle caused him a great deal of pain.

Synonyms

shrinkage reduction shortening constriction narrowing abbreviation compression

Antonyms

expansion growth enlargement dilation extension stretching increase