shrink (B2)

verb

Pronunciation: /ʃrɪŋk/

Definition

To become or make smaller in size, amount, or number.

Examples

• The wool sweater will shrink if you wash it in hot water.

• The company's profits shrank last quarter due to increased competition.

• As the population ages, the workforce is expected to shrink.

How to Use shrink

shrink from (prepositional phrase)

To avoid doing something that you find unpleasant or difficult. — "He never shrinks from a challenge."

shrink back (phrasal verb)

To move backward suddenly out of fear or disgust. — "The child shrank back from the loud noise."

shrink to (prepositional phrase)

To become reduced to a specific, smaller size or amount. — "The company's workforce will shrink to 500 employees."

Synonyms of shrink

Words with a similar meaning to shrink:

• reduce
• diminish
• contract
• lessen

Antonyms of shrink

Words with the opposite meaning to shrink:

• grow
• expand
• increase

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