compress

[kuhm-pres, kom-pres] / kəmˈprɛs, ˈkɒm prɛs /

VERB

compact, condense

Synonyms

STRONGEST

abbreviate constrict cram restrict shorten shrink squeeze wrap

STRONG

abridge abstract bind coagulate concentrate consolidate contract cramp crowd crush decrease dehydrate epitomize narrow pack press ram reduce shrivel squash stuff summarize syncopate telescope tighten wedge

WEAK

boil down densen densify force into space make brief press together

Antonyms

STRONGEST

amplify enlarge expand free grow increase lengthen let go open release

STRONG

add allow disperse extend loose loosen raise strengthen uncompress untie unwrinkle

WEAK

blow up fill stretch uncondense

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Entry-level workers, on the other hand, may benefit: AI can compress the learning curve, allowing less-experienced people to perform at higher levels sooner.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026

“Supersonic travel will compress the world in a way we haven’t seen since the Jet Age,” says NYU’s Karaburun.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 15, 2026

This provided direct evidence of costal aspiration breathing, where muscles between the ribs expand and compress the chest cavity to pull air into the lungs.

From Science Daily • Apr. 23, 2026

Discounting could compress margins at a time when many franchisees are already struggling with higher input and operating costs.

From Barron's • Apr. 21, 2026

She used the salve as a paste to compress the wadded seaweed against the wound.

From "Son" by Lois Lowry

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