CONSTRICTING Synonyms: 82 Similar and Opposite Words

constricting 1 of 2

noun

as in squeezing

the act or process of reducing the size or volume of something by or as if by pressing the constant constricting of the animal's throat had caused permanent damage

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

constricting

2 of 2

verb

present participle of constrict

as in shrinking

to become smaller in size or volume through the drawing together of particles of matter the vessel constricted, thereby reducing the flow of blood

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in compressing

to reduce in size or volume by or as if by pressing parts or members together constricted the opening with a clamp

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of constricting

Noun

The Russian director’s first film in English, by contrast, is testosterone-driven, a father-son story in which the constricting codes of masculinity lead to senseless loss. — David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 13 May 2026 This spring, trending styles are continuing to divert from slimmer, constricting fits, with many embracing an ultra-relaxed look that leaves room for comfort and experimentation. — Emily Kelleher, InStyle, 12 Apr. 2026 Howard and her team got the company to redesign the uniform after about a year of trying, swapping the constricting top for a looser one. — Starre Vartan, CNN Money, 16 Dec. 2025 Toddlers and babies especially might especially appreciate a break from their constricting seat, and a change in scenery, by talking a walk up and down the aisles with mom or dad. — Sherri Gordon, Parents, 23 Oct. 2025 Its space is at once endless and constricting. — Literary Hub, 20 Oct. 2025 Wildlife art can be confining, constricting, customary; contemporary artists are assuring its survival and vibrancy by breaking from the traditional. — Chadd Scott, Forbes.com, 31 Aug. 2025

Verb

Two adjustable top straps add visual intrigue and help keep your feet in place without feeling constricting, while a stretchy ankle strap offers an extra secure fit. — Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 3 Aug. 2026 Nothing detracts from a breezy summer set like constricting lace-ups. — Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 23 July 2026 Oil prices have been volatile since the start of the war in Iran, with the country’s de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz constricting traffic of 20 percent of the world’s oil supply. — Glenn Taylor, Footwear News, 23 July 2026 Zero compression would be the pressure a regular athletic sock provides, which isn’t constricting but may offer arch support and padding. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 9 July 2026 Its billowy fit allows for movement and breeze—never constricting or uncomfortable. — Reece Andavolgyi, InStyle, 27 June 2026 According to Higgins, many over-the-counter products can cause or worsen high blood pressure by constricting your blood vessels or retaining water in your body. — Kathleen Ferraro, Verywell Health, 11 June 2026 Led by Volcker, the Fed squeezed inflation out of the economy by constricting money supply increases. — Edward Lotterman, Twin Cities, 31 May 2026 Best super-stretchy jeans These ultrasoft jeans are designed to flatter every curve without ever being too tight or constricting. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 29 May 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for constricting

Noun

So scientists use frequency-dependent squeezing to reduce quantum noise.

— Ameya Paleja, Interesting Engineering, 22 May 2026
Maenpaa added that the physical act of squeezing creates a sensory anchor.

— Samantha Agate, Charlotte Observer, 7 May 2026

Definition of squeezing

Verb

In its first quarterly report since offering shares to the public, Elon Musk's SpaceX announced soaring revenues and shrinking losses — but still not a profit.

— John Ruwitch, NPR, 4 Aug. 2026
Sales of both gas and electric water heaters grew about 11% in the same time period, showing that gas isn’t shrinking, but electric is edging ahead.

— Jennifer Castenson, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026

Definition of shrinking

Verb

Compressing the timeline entails compressing the exploration that is so foundational to the college experience.

— Christopher Rim, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026
When force is applied, the pillar tilts toward the point of contact, compressing the corresponding chamber and pushing fluid through soft tubes to actuators.

— Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 13 July 2026

Definition of compressing

Noun

Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk was photographed wearing Normatec compression boots in the back seat of his car on post‑match drives home before becoming an official partner.

— Lilian Raji, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026
Cooling gel sleeves can be popped in the freezer to soothe sore joints with icy, gentle compression.

— ABC News, ABC News, 1 Aug. 2026

Definition of compression

Verb

There are many ways to get powerful Pals in Palworld, whether that’s condensing them for extra stars or a whole, whole lot of RNG breeding.

— Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026
Some simple googling would’ve helped the Cubs out when condensing a player’s contributions to the championship season into a few words.

— Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 20 July 2026

Definition of condensing

Noun

Vanja recognized that the fitness industry’s focus on repetitive, linear movements actively contributes to physical constriction and chronic injury.

— Ginger Gentile, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026
The season emphasizes emotional constriction and physical limits, not literal clock time.

— Kathryn VanArendonk, Vulture, 26 June 2026

Definition of constriction

Verb

The sterile male flies mated with fertile female flies, but the interactions didn’t produce offspring, decreasing the overall fly population.

— Nollyanne Delacruz, Mercury News, 24 July 2026
The result is increasing structural lifespan and decreasing potentially massive costs during work disruption, repair, and replacement.

— New Atlas, New Atlas, 24 July 2026

Definition of decreasing

Noun

But until those requirements are formally published and MCOs have updated their systems, provider manuals and contracting terms accordingly, providers face a fragmented reality.

— Valerie Cerra, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026
Cacioppo’s criminal history could undercut a central element of Hanaway’s claims about unfair contracting, which Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas called politically motivated.

— Ben Wheeler, Kansas City Star, 24 July 2026

Definition of contracting

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constricting

constriction

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“Constricting.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/constricting. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of constricting

noun

verb

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