Trial AccessBecome a Partner
Demo
search close
      https://lingvanex.com/translate/ Translate text https://app.lingvanex.com/ Translate files

      Shrinking

      /ˈʃrɪŋkɪŋ/

      Meaning & Definition

      verb
      Present participle of shrink; to become smaller in size, amount, or value.
      The ice was shrinking as the temperature rose.
      To make something smaller or to become smaller.
      The company is shrinking its workforce due to budget cuts.
      To retreat or withdraw.
      He felt his confidence shrinking under the pressure of the situation.
      To diminish in intensity or importance.
      Her enthusiasm for the project was shrinking day by day.

      Etymology

      Derived from the Old English 'scrincan', meaning 'to draw together, contract'.

      Common Phrases and Expressions

      shrinking violet:
      A person who is shy and timid.
      shrinking economy:
      An economy that is contracting or declining.
      shrinking market:
      A market experiencing reduced demand.

      Related Words

      shrink
      To become smaller.
      constrict
      To make smaller or narrower.
      diminish
      To make or become less.

      Slang Meanings

      To give up or retreat in a situation.
      He was shrinking from the challenge.
      To become overwhelmed and withdraw.
      When the pressure was too much, he started shrinking away from his friends.