constrict
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /kənˈstrɪkt/
KK: /kənˈstrɪkt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To become narrower or tighter.
Example
The snake began to constrict around its prey.
Tense Forms
Past: constricted
Past Participle: constricted
Conversation
Have you ever noticed how your muscles constrict when you're feeling anxious?
Yeah, I definitely feel that tightness sometimes.
It's interesting to think about how our bodies react like that.
For sure! It's like a physical response to stress.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
narrow
tighten
shrink
Antonyms
expand
loosen
widen
transitive verb
Definition
To make something smaller or tighter by squeezing or binding it.
Example
The snake constricts its prey before swallowing it whole.
Tense Forms
Past: constricted
Past Participle: constricted
Conversation
Have you ever noticed how tight those shoes are?
Yeah, they really constrict my feet after a while.
I thought it was just me feeling that way.
Root Explanation
Constrict → It is formed from "con-" (meaning together) and "stringere" (meaning to bind or draw tight). The word describes the action of binding or drawing something together tightly.
Memory Tip
Think of something being 'bound tightly together' — 'con-' means together, and 'stringere' means to bind.
Visually Confused Words
contradict
contrite
contract
unconstricted
strict
reconstruct