Contraction

/kəntɹˈækʃən/

/kənˈtɹækʃən/

Contraction

(physiology) a shortening or tensing of a part or organ (especially of a muscle or muscle fiber)

the act of decreasing (something) in size or volume or quantity or scope

antonyms : expansion

a short form of a word or a group of words used instead of the full form

the process or result of becoming smaller or pressed together

Examples

1. Contractions have a start and a stop.

2. What are contractions?

3. I use contractions.

4. Contractions are very common in spoken English.