compress

To press or squeeze something so that it takes up less space.

• Compress the sponge in your hand.
• The pump compresses air inside the tank.
• They compressed the loose material into firm blocks.

How to use it: compress something into something (The machine compresses waste into small blocks.)

Similar words: squeeze, press, compact

Opposites: expand

Common phrases: compress a spring, compress air, compress something tightly, compress the material

To become smaller or fold into a shape that takes up less space.

• This foam compresses easily.
• The mattress compressed under his weight.
• The sleeping bag compresses into a tiny bundle for travel.

How to use it: compress into something (The cushion compresses into a small package.)

Similar words: compact, contract

Opposites: expand

Common phrases: compress easily, compress under pressure

A cloth or small bag placed against the body to reduce pain, swelling, or bleeding.

• Put a cold compress on your ankle.
• She held a warm compress against her sore eye.
• Replace the compress when it becomes warm.

Common phrases: cold compress, warm compress, apply a compress