< Back

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

contraction

Definition

Contraction is when something gets smaller.

For example, when you make a fist, your hand is contracting.

Contractions can happen to muscles, tissues, and even whole organs.

How can the word be used?

The muscle contracted, causing the limb to shorten.

contraction

Different forms of the word

Noun: contraction.

Verb: contract.

Adjective: contractive.

Etymology

The word "contraction" comes from the Latin word "contractio," which means "drawing together" or "shrinking." It is made up of the prefix "con-," which means "together," and the verb "trahere," which means "to draw.".

Question

What things can contract?