compression
3 synonyms and 2 antonyms for compression, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The act of pressing something together, or the state of being pressed together.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use compression
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Latin compressio, from comprimere — see "compress."
Full origin of compression →Frequently asked questions
What does “compression” mean?
The word “compression” means the act of pressing something together, or the state of being pressed together. In plain terms, the act or result of squeezing something, whether physically, mechanically, or digitally.
How do you pronounce “compression”?
“Compression” is pronounced kuhm-PREHSH-uhn (/kəmˈpɹɛʃ.ən/ in IPA).
How do you use “compression” in a sentence?
Here is “compression” used in a sentence: “The bandage applies gentle compression to reduce swelling.”
What is the opposite of “compression”?
The opposite of “compression” — its antonyms — are decompression and rarefaction.
What part of speech is “compression”?
“Compression” is a noun.
Where does the word “compression” come from?
The word “compression” comes from Latin. From Latin compressio, from comprimere — see "compress.".
Is “compression” a common word?
“Compression” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “compression” have?
“Compression” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the act of pressing something together, or the state of being pressed together.
What is the difference between compression in computing and in mechanics?
In computing, compression refers to reducing the size of a digital file so it takes up less storage space or transmits faster. In mechanics, compression refers to the stage in an engine's cycle where the fuel-air mixture is squeezed together before ignition, a physical rather than digital process.
What does compression mean in general physical terms?
In its general sense, compression is the act of pressing something together, or the resulting state of being pressed together, and this basic meaning underlies both the mechanical and computing uses of the word.
Why is file compression used in computing?
File compression reduces the size of a digital file so it uses less storage space and can be transferred more quickly, which is why it is widely used for images, audio, video, and other data.