Definition

Having the quality of becoming smaller or less in size or importance.

Example

The shrinking ice caps are a sign of climate change.

Conversation

Have you noticed how my favorite sweater is shrinking in the wash?

Yeah, it looks a bit smaller than before!

I guess I should read the care label more carefully next time.

Definitely! It’s always a bummer when clothes start shrinking.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To become smaller in size, amount, or value.

Example

The sweater shrank after I washed it in hot water.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you noticed that my sweater is shrinking after every wash?

Yeah, it looks a bit tighter than before!

I think I need to stop using hot water; it keeps shrinking it.

Root Explanation

Shrinking → It is formed from "shrink" (from Old English "scrincan", meaning to become smaller or to contract) and "-ing" (a suffix used to form present participles or gerunds). The word "shrinking" describes the process of becoming smaller or contracting.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'becoming smaller' — 'shrink' means to reduce in size, and '-ing' indicates the action of doing it.

Visually Confused Words