contraction

noun

1.
(physiology) a shortening or tensing of a part or organ (especially of a muscle or muscle fiber)
muscle contraction muscular contraction
Derived from:
contract
2.
the process or result of becoming smaller or pressed together
compression condensation
3.
a word formed from two or more words by omitting or combining some sounds
4.
the act of decreasing (something) in size or volume or quantity or scope
Antonym:
expansion
Derived from:
contract