adjective / verb / noun
compact
kum-PAKT/kəmˈpækt/
Small and efficiently arranged to occupy little space.
The rolled clothes form a compact arrangement inside the small suitcase.
Etymology
The pieces suggest things “fastened together.” The adjective described substances closely and firmly united, giving the modern idea of something densely packed or occupying little space.
In context
furniture multi-functional pieces are your best friend in a compact space look for sofas that double as beds or Ottomans with hidden storage inside
More examples
- The tent folds into a compact bundle for easy carrying.
- Workers compact the soil before laying the patio.
- Her compact holds pressed powder and a small mirror.
Forms
compact · compacts · compacted · compacting · more compact · most compact
compactness noun — The quality of occupying little space.
compactly adverb — In a tightly arranged, space-saving way.