Shrink

Quick meaning: Shrink is a verb meaning (transitive) To cause to become smaller.

Meaning

(transitive) To cause to become smaller.

More Meanings

1. (intransitive) To become smaller; to contract.
2. (intransitive) To cower or flinch.
3. (transitive) To draw back; to withdraw.
4. (intransitive, figuratively) To withdraw or retire, as from danger.
5. (intransitive) To move back or away, especially because of fear or disgust.
6. Shrinkage; contraction; recoil.
7. (slang, sometimes derogatory) A psychiatrist or psychotherapist.

Example Sentences

The dryer shrank my sweater.

This garment will shrink when wet.

Since 1982, it has shrunk by 250 meters.

And shrink like parchment in consuming fire.

Word Forms

• shrinks
• shrinking
• shrank
• shrunk
• shrunken

Synonyms for shrink

Depending on context, synonyms include funk, shirk, retreat, flinch, head-shrinker, shrinker.

Antonyms for shrink

Common opposites include expand, grow, enlarge, stretch.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include reduce, shrivel, wither, quail, cringe, flinch.

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