The word "constrict" is spelled with a "c-o-n-s-t-r-i-c-t" sequence of letters. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is represented as /kənˈstrɪkt/. The first syllable is pronounced with the schwa sound /ə/ and the second syllable has the stressed vowel /ɪ/. The "c" is pronounced as a hard "k" sound instead of the soft "s" sound, which can be confusing to learners of English. The suffix "-strict" comes from the Latin word "strictus," meaning "tight" or "rigid," which reflects the meaning of the word.
The term "constrict" is a verb that denotes the act of narrowing or tightening something, usually in a physical or metaphorical sense. When applied to a physical context, it refers to the action of squeezing or compressing an object, resulting in a reduced diameter or size. For instance, a constricting snake coils tightly around its prey to restrain and suffocate it.
In a metaphorical sense, "constrict" refers to restricting or limiting someone or something. This can be seen in various contexts, such as social, intellectual, or emotional constrictions. For example, one may feel constricted by societal norms that limit their choices or by a restrictive work environment that hinders their creativity.
The word "constrict" often implies a sense of pressure, suppression, or restraint. It signifies a constraining force that restricts movement, growth, or expansion. This restriction could be physical, as in the case of a constricting bandage applied around a wounded area to control bleeding and swelling.
Furthermore, "constrict" can also be used figuratively to describe the act of tightening or closing down something abstract or intangible, such as a budget, access, or options. In this sense, it indicates the reduction or limitation of resources, freedom, or opportunities.
Overall, "constrict" captures the idea of narrowing, tightening, or restricting, whether applied to physical objects, ideas, relationships, or actions. It encompasses the concept of imposing limitations or pressure, which results in a reduction or constraint upon the subject in question.
To draw together; to bind; to draw into a narrow compass.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word constrict comes from the Latin verb constringere, which can be broken down into two parts: con- meaning together or with, and stringere meaning to bind or to draw tight. The suffix -t is added to the stem constric- to form the verb constrict. So, the etymology of constrict can be traced back to Latin, meaning to bind or draw tight together.