GREAT GIFT IDEA!

The Vocabulary Builder Workbook of Adjectives

✔ Add 2,000 must-know adjectives to your vocabulary.

✔ All-in-one: dictionary, thesaurus, & workbook.

✔ 99 categorized lessons, 232 practical activities.

✔ Suitable for students & professionals of all ages.

✔ Ideal preparation for: TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, CPE, BEC, PTE, FCE

Buy on Amazon

4.9

Transform Your Vocabulary Today!

compact

adjective

/kəmˈpækt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of compact

Small in size or taking up minimal space.
"The compact design of the new smartphone allowed for easy one-handed use."

Detailed meaning of compact

When referring to objects or devices, 'compact' suggests that they are designed to be conveniently portable and occupy little room when stored or carried. It implies efficiency in space utilization without compromising on essential features or capabilities. For example, a compact car typically has a smaller footprint than larger vehicles, making it easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas while still providing comfortable seating and adequate performance. In general, 'compact' conveys the idea of being condensed, concise, and neatly organized to achieve maximum efficiency within a limited space or dimension.

Example sentences containing compact

1. She carried a compact mirror in her purse for quick touch-ups throughout the day.
2. The hotel room was small but well-designed, with a compact layout that maximized space.
3. The compact disc revolutionized the way music was stored and played.
4. He preferred a compact laptop for its portability during business trips.
5. The compact camera captured stunning photos despite its small size.
6. The compact kitchenette had all the necessary appliances in a tiny space.

History and etymology of compact

The adjective 'compact' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'compactus,' which means 'pressed together' or 'packed.' This word is derived from 'com-' meaning 'together' and 'pactum' meaning 'a pact or agreement.' The etymology of 'compact' conveys the notion of things being tightly and closely pressed together, which led to its usage in English to describe something that is small in size or takes up minimal space due to its density or efficient arrangement. In this sense, 'compact' emphasizes the idea of objects or entities being condensed or closely arranged, resulting in a reduced physical footprint.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the adjective compact:

answer1

answer2

answer3

answer4

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

Further usage examples of compact

1. The compact SUV was perfect for navigating narrow city streets.
2. She organized her makeup collection in a compact organizer to save space on her vanity.
3. The compact gym equipment allowed for a full-body workout in a small apartment.
4. The compact umbrella fit perfectly in her bag, providing protection from the rain.
5. The compact city car was fuel-efficient and ideal for commuting in a bustling metropolis.
6. His compact car was perfect for city driving.
7. The apartment had a compact but cozy layout.
8. The compact camera easily fits in your pocket.
9. A compact design saves space in the kitchen.
10. The tablet's compact size makes it portable.
11. The compact suitcase held all her essentials.
12. The compact garden made the most of limited space.
13. Compact laptops are convenient for travel.
14. The city's compact layout encourages walking.
15. A compact wallet keeps things organized.
16. The hotel room had a compact yet stylish bathroom.
17. The house had a compact, efficient heating system.
18. The compact speaker delivered impressive sound.
19. The library had a compact collection of books.
20. The compact furniture maximized living room space.
21. Her compact purse was perfect for a night out.
22. The camp stove's compact design is ideal for hiking.
23. Compact fluorescent bulbs are energy-efficient.
24. The compact desk was perfect for a small office.
25. The compact gym offered a range of workout options.