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shrink

verb

/ʃrɪŋk/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of shrink

To decrease in size, volume, or extent.
"The company had to shrink its workforce due to financial constraints."

Detailed meaning of shrink

It implies a reduction or contraction, often in a gradual or unintentional manner. When something shrinks, it becomes smaller or more compact. This can apply to physical objects, such as clothing that becomes smaller after washing, or to concepts like a company's profits shrinking due to economic factors. Shrinkage can also refer to the process of pulling back or retracting, such as when a material or substance shrinks under the influence of heat or cold. Additionally, "shrink" can describe the action of becoming timid, withdrawn, or less confident, as if shrinking away from a situation. In summary, the verb "shrink" denotes the act of decreasing in size, volume, extent, or confidence, reflecting a reduction or withdrawal in various contexts.

Example sentences containing shrink

1. If we don't protect the environment, the ice caps will continue to shrink.
2. The doctor warned that my tumor might not shrink without aggressive treatment.
3. We watched in amazement as the magic trick made the coin seem to shrink.
4. Despite my efforts, my savings seem to shrink every month.
5. Over time, the amount of untouched wilderness continues to shrink.
6. Without maintenance, old houses often shrink and warp.

History and etymology of shrink

The verb 'shrink' has its origins in the Middle English word 'shrinken,' which is believed to have evolved from the Old English term 'scrincan.' In Old English, 'scrincan' meant to contract or shrivel, reflecting the core meaning of reducing in size or volume. The word's roots can be traced even further back to the Proto-Germanic word 'skrenkan,' which had a similar meaning of shrinking or contracting. The etymology of 'shrink' emphasizes the idea of something decreasing in size, volume, or extent, which remains central to its modern usage as a verb describing the process of diminishing or contracting.

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Further usage examples of shrink

1. After a few washes, my new t-shirt started to shrink.
2. When you apply heat, these special materials will shrink.
3. In times of conflict, resources can shrink rapidly.
4. Since I started eating healthier, my waistline began to shrink.
5. As we gain knowledge, our ignorance tends to shrink.
6. When exposed to the cold, some metals can shrink.
7. As the company grows, individual roles may shrink.
8. It's normal for clothes to shrink after a hot wash.
9. As the conversation got awkward, I wished I could shrink into the background.
10. The hopes of making the team began to shrink after a bad tryout.
11. Unless the economy picks up, the middle class will continue to shrink.
12. When light hits it, this peculiar fabric will shrink.
13. His ego didn't shrink, even after a series of failures.
14. With the advancement of technology, distances seem to shrink.