The word "constricted" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /kənˈstrɪktɪd/. The initial syllable starts with the unstressed vowel sound schwa /ə/ followed by the consonant sound /k/. The stressed syllable contains the long "i" sound /aɪ/ and the consonant cluster /nstr/. The final syllable includes the short "i" sound /ɪ/ and the consonant sound /ktɪd/. The word "constricted" means restricted or narrowed, typically referring to physical or emotional conditions. Overall, the spelling of this word follows the standard English spelling rules.
Constricted is an adjective that describes a state or condition of being restricted, limited, or tightly compressed. It refers to the act of tightening or narrowing something, causing it to become compacted or confined.
In a literal sense, when used to describe a physical object, constricted implies that it has been squeezed, tightened, or shrunk in size, resulting in a reduced capacity or limited space within it. For example, a constricted artery refers to a blood vessel that has become narrowed, hindering the flow of blood through it. Similarly, constricted pupils indicate that the black centers of the eyes have become smaller due to certain factors, such as exposure to bright light or certain drugs.
When applied in a metaphorical sense, constricted typically describes a feeling, emotion, or mental state of being limited or restrained. It implies a sense of tightness, tension, or confinement, where one's choices, freedom, or opportunities may be restricted. For instance, a person experiencing constricted thoughts may feel mentally trapped, unable to think flexibly or generate creative ideas. Likewise, someone with a constricted lifestyle may feel restricted in their daily routines or social interactions.
Overall, constricted describes a condition of being tightly confined, restricted, or limited physically, psychologically, or metaphorically.
Tightened or contracted.
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 "constricted" is derived from the Latin word "constrictus", which is the past participle of the verb "constringere". "Constringere" is composed of two Latin roots: "con", meaning "together", and "stringere", meaning "to bind, tighten, or draw tight". Hence, "constricted" combines these elements and conveys the meaning of being tightly bound or squeezed together.