compression
kuhm-PREHSH-uhn
Compression (noun) means the act of pressing something together, or the state of being pressed together. Example: “The bandage applies gentle compression to reduce swelling.”
noun
1
The act of pressing something together, or the state of being pressed together.
"The bandage applies gentle compression to reduce swelling."
"Firm compression of the sponge squeezed all the water out."
"Compression of the snow under their boots made a crunching sound."
2
(mechanics) The stage in an engine's cycle where the fuel-air mixture is squeezed before ignition.
"A loss of compression can cause an engine to run poorly."
"The mechanic tested the compression in each cylinder before replacing the spark plugs."
"Higher compression in the engine helps it burn fuel more efficiently."
3
(computing) The process of reducing the size of a digital file.
"Image compression allows web pages to load faster."
"File compression lets you send large photos by email without delay."
"Video compression means the film takes up far less space on your phone."
How to use compression
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe act or result of squeezing something, whether physically, mechanically, or digitally.
Common pairings
file compression
engine compression
compression bandage
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Word forms
- Plural
- compressions
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The bandage applies gentle _____ to reduce swelling.
Etymology
From Latin compressio, from comprimere — see "compress."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for compression
region
ablation
allusion
emulsion
ideation
novation
diffusion
elocution
extension
oxidation
perfusion
selection
See all rhymes for 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.
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