compression

noun

com·​pres·​sion kəm-ˈpre-shən How to pronounce compression (audio)
1
a
: the act, process, or result of compressing
b
: the state of being compressed
2
: the process of compressing the fuel mixture in a cylinder of an internal combustion engine (as in an automobile)
3
: the compressed remains of a fossil plant
4
: conversion (as of data, a data file, or a communications signal) in order to reduce the space occupied or bandwidth required
compressional
kəm-ˈpresh-nəl How to pronounce compression (audio)
-ˈpre-shə-nᵊl
adjective

Examples of compression in a Sentence

the compression of a long, complicated story into a two-hour movie is never easy
Recent Examples on the Web Then, two compression straps on each side provide a secure fit. Maya Polton, Parents, 14 Mar. 2024 The deputies don’t respond, and the one rendering aid calls for a compression patch under the teen’s armpit and starts CPR. Ben Brasch, Washington Post, 14 Mar. 2024 Depending on their construction, some can provide compression, shaping, and smoothing benefits, too. Jessie Quinn, Peoplemag, 4 Mar. 2024 Stuff the main compartment with clothes, then use the exterior compression straps to seal it all in. Chadner Navarro, Travel + Leisure, 27 Feb. 2024 Gorilla Grip Space Saving Compression Packing Cubes Earning the title of the No. 1 travel packing organizer new release at Amazon, this trio of compression packing cubes is essential for optimizing the space in your luggage, all while keeping your clothing neatly contained. Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 3 Mar. 2024 Byrne suggests abdominal compressions, pelvic tilts, toe taps, heel slides, single-leg stretches, and bridges with belly scooping. Alesandra Dubin, Parents, 27 Feb. 2024 The center was formed to help people who experience cervical myelopathy, a condition that results from compression of the spinal cord in the neck and can cause pain, stiffness in the neck or arms and loss of coordination in people suffering from it. Sarah Volpenhein, Journal Sentinel, 26 Feb. 2024 For an easy way to keep your suitcase organized, opt for these compression packing cubes that expand just enough to proficiently fit shirts, sweaters, pants, and other clothes. Isabel Garcia, Peoplemag, 25 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'compression.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of compression was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near compression

Cite this Entry

“Compression.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/compression. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

compression

noun
com·​pres·​sion kəm-ˈpresh-ən How to pronounce compression (audio)
1
: the act, process, or result of compressing : the state of being compressed
2
: the process of compressing the fuel mixture in the cylinders of an internal-combustion engine
compressional adjective

Medical Definition

compression

noun
com·​pres·​sion kəm-ˈpresh-ən How to pronounce compression (audio)
: the act, process, or result of compressing especially when involving a compressing force on a bodily part
compression of an artery by forceps
compression of the brain by the bones of a depressed fracture

More from Merriam-Webster on compression

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