Meaning & Definition of word "Compress"
Compress
/kəmˈprɛs/
noun:
- 1. a device or tool used to apply pressure to something, typically to reduce its size or volume.
- Example: The mechanic used a compress to fix the dent in the car.
verb:
- 1. to press or squeeze together or into a smaller space; to reduce in size.
- Example: She used a vacuum sealer to compress the clothes in the suitcase.
- 2. to condense or reduce in magnitude or amount.
- Example: The writer was asked to compress the lengthy report into a summary.
- 3. in computing, to reduce the size of a file by encoding it in a more efficient way.
- Example: The software can compress large images without losing quality.
Etymology
●Late Middle English: from Latin 'compressus', past participle of 'comprimere', from 'com-' (altogether) + 'premere' (to press).
Common Phrases and Expressions
compress data:
To reduce the size of digital information.
compress file:
To create a smaller version of a digital file.
compress a spring:
To push together the coils of a spring to store potential energy.
Related Words
compression:
The act or process of compressing.
compressor:
A device that compresses gases.
Slang Meanings of compress
Meaning: To pack or make something smaller.
● Example Sentence: I had to compress my entire life into one suitcase for the trip.
Meaning: To rush or hurry through something.
● Example Sentence: We need to compress the schedule to fit everything in.