contraction

8 definitions • 13 examples

the fact of something becoming smaller or shorter:

Cold causes contraction of the metal.

The contraction of this muscle raises the lower arm.

the fact of becoming less in amount or quantity:

the contraction of economic output

one of the very strong and usually painful movements of the muscles in the womb that help to push the baby out of the mother's body during the process of birth:

have a contraction She was having regular strong contractions every four minutes.

a short form of a word or combination of words that is often used instead of the full form in spoken English:

"Won't" is a contraction of "will not".

a reduction in size or amount:

[ C ] an economic contraction

[ U ] Heat differences cause rapid expansion and contraction of the gas.

A contraction is a shortening of a muscle intentionally, or a sudden, unexpected, and often painful shortening of a muscle:

[ C ] voluntary/involuntary contractions

[ U ] Contraction of the muscle raises your arm.

[ C ] Researchers think olive oil may slow stomach contractions.

A contraction is also a shortened form of a word or combination of words:

[ C ] “Can’t” is a contraction of “cannot.”

a situation in which less money is being earned, spent, or invested in a market or economy:

Michigan's economy experienced a contraction last year.

(a) contraction in sth A sharp contraction in the labour market is predicted.