kənzˈtrikshən, kənˈstr- noun
( -s )
Etymology: French or Latin; French constriction, from Latin constriction-, constrictio, from constrictus + -ion-, -io, -ion
1.
a. : the act of constricting : compressing
the slow constriction of a snake coiled around its prey
b. : temporary or permanent contraction resulting in the narrowing of a channel (as a blood vessel or ureter) and impeding passage through it
c. : a bringing of one organ of speech close enough to another so that audible friction is produced when breath of sufficient intensity passes between
2. : the quality or state of being constricted or contracted
the constriction of international trade brought on by war
3.
a. : something that blocks, impedes inhibits, or hinders
the swollen river piled up refuse against every constriction along the bank
b. : narrowness, repression, or inhibition especially in emotional or intellectual activity
the excessive constriction of Puritanism — E.A.Mowrer
the lifelong fighter against cruelty, bigotry, and constriction — C.H.Driver
4. : a feeling or sensation of tightness, narrowness, or compression
a constriction in the throat brought on by emotion
5. : a part that is narrowed down, compressed, or contracted
a constriction in a waterway