<p><strong>Verb (used with object)</strong></p><ul><li>to draw or press in; cause to contract or shrink; compress.<ul><li>Synonyms: tighten, bind, squeeze, cramp</li><li>Antonyms: expand</li></ul></li><li>to slow or stop the natural course or development of: Greed and aggressiveness constricted the nation's cultural life.</li></ul>