compression

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.

“Compression” is pronounced kuhm-PREHSH-uhn (/kəmˈpɹɛʃ.ən/ in IPA).

Here is “compression” used in a sentence: “The bandage applies gentle compression to reduce swelling.”

The opposite of “compression” — its antonyms — are decompression and rarefaction.

“Compression” is a noun.

The word “compression” comes from Latin. From Latin compressio, from comprimere — see "compress.".

“Compression” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

“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.

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.

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.

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.