constrict

Everyday

1. To make something narrower or tighter by squeezing it: «The snake constricted its prey». tree →
2. (body) When blood vessels, pupils of the eye or airways get narrower: «Cold makes blood vessels constrict». tree →
3. To limit what someone can do: «Tight rules constricted the players». tree →

In the lessons

In science, a boa constrictor or python kills by constricting (squeezing) its prey; in the body, blood vessels constrict in cold weather to keep heat in, and airways constrict during an asthma attack (an inhaler helps them open). In stories, a «constricted throat» or «tight, constricting clothes» show fear or discomfort. Phrases: «constrict blood vessels», «a constricted throat», «constricting clothes».

Examples

• The python constricts its prey until it stops breathing. tree →
• In the cold, the blood vessels in your fingers constrict. tree →
• During an asthma attack, the airways constrict, so it is hard to breathe. tree →
• His throat constricted with fear. tree →
• The tight collar constricted her neck. tree →
• Bright light makes the pupils of your eyes constrict. tree →
• Too many rules can constrict creativity. tree →

Note

The noun is «constriction» and a snake that does this is a «constrictor». The opposite in the body is «dilate» (to get wider). Do not confuse with «restrict» (to limit by rules) or «construct» (to build).