constrict
UK[kənˈstrɪkt]US[kənˈstrɪkt]
v
To make something narrower, tighter, or less free to move, especially by squeezing or surrounding it.
v
To limit or restrict something.
Morpheme Breakdown
con
strict
con
together
strict
tight
Etymology
The word 'constrict' is a direct borrowing from the Latin verb 'constringere', meaning "to draw together, bind tightly, fetter". This Latin verb is itself a compound of the intensive prefix 'con-' (together) and 'stringere' (to draw tight, bind). The past participle stem of 'constringere' is 'strict-', which gives us the modern English morpheme. The core semantic logic has remained remarkably consistent: from the literal physical action of binding or squeezing something tightly together, the meaning extended metaphorically to the abstract sense of limiting or restricting freedom, action, or growth.
Analysis
Structure: con (together) + strict (tight)
con: Latin origin, a prefix meaning "together, with, thoroughly".
strict: Latin origin, from the root meaning "drawn tight, narrow, severe".
Examples
The tight collar began to constrict his breathing.
Fear can constrict blood vessels and raise blood pressure.
The new regulations are likely to constrict economic growth in the region.