Learn English – Opposite of “expanded”

antonymsmeaningterminologyword-choice

I am looking for the word to use when saying the opposite of expanded/expand/expansion. Here is an example of how I want to use the word:

In the summer the wood expanded, now it is winter and the wood
(________).

Also, if there are other antonyms for expand, please let me know.

Best Answer

Contract

The wood contracted.

See the second definition.

v.intr. 1. To enter into or make an agreement: contract for garbage collection. 2. To become reduced in size by or as if by being drawn together: The pupils of the patient's eyes contracted.

=== edit Added antonyms and usage ===

For other opposites, try http://www.synonym.com/antonyms/expanded/.

Antonym of contract (Sense 9) =>abridge, foreshorten, abbreviate, shorten, cut, contract, reduce"

Here, I'm using expanded and its antonym as a transitive verb.

He expanded/abridged his novel.

She expanded/foreshortened her perspective.

He expanded/abbreviated his speech.

She expanded/shortened her trip.

They expanded/cut her research budget.

Here, I'm using expanded and its antonym as an intransitive verb

The bridge expanded/contracted as the temperature changed.

His waistline expanded/reduced with exercise.

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