constricted
UK: /kənˈstrɪktɪd/ | US: /kənˈstrɪktɪd/
adj. narrowed or compressed physically
adj. restricted or limited in scope or freedom
vt. past tense of "constrict" (to tighten or squeeze)
The word "constricted" originates from Latin constrictus, the past participle of constringere ("to bind tightly"). The morpheme "con-" (from Latin cum) means "together," while "strict" derives from Latin strictus ("drawn tight"), related to stringere ("to bind"). Over time, the term evolved to describe both physical compression and metaphorical limitations, reflecting the idea of being "tightly bound."
The snake constricted its prey until breathing became impossible.
She felt constricted by the rigid rules of the institution.
His throat constricted with emotion as he spoke.
The narrow hallway constricted the flow of foot traffic.
The policy constricted economic growth in the region.