noun

constriction

kun-STRIK-shun/kənˈstrɪkʃn/

A tightening or narrowing that restricts space or passage.

A constriction in the pipe slows the flow of water.

Flexible garden hose visibly pinched narrower by a clamp, reduced water stream emerges.

Etymology

conLatintogether

+strictLatindraw tight, bind

+ionLatinact or process

Drawing tightly together becomes the name of an action through the noun ending. Constriction names both that tightening process and the resulting state of being compressed or narrowed.

In context

SpeechModification27:28

it's coming out in a skinny stream between my teeth I'm making a little constriction with closing the teeth and having the tongue clo close to the teeth

How to Pronounce Mall, Maul, Mole, Mull, Molly and Mule

More examples

Cold temperatures cause constriction of the blood vessels.
She feels a constriction in her throat as she cries.
The scan reveals two constrictions in the airway.

Forms

constriction · constrictions

constrict verb — To tighten or narrow, restricting space or passage.

Similar words

narrowing: Emphasizes reduced width, without necessarily suggesting tightness or pressure.
tightening: Emphasizes increased tightness rather than reduced space or passage.