Basic Details
Word: Compress
Part of Speech: Verb / Noun
Meaning: (Verb) To press or squeeze something to make it smaller or more compact; (Noun) A pad of absorbent material pressed onto part of the body to relieve inflammation or stop bleeding.
Synonyms: Squeeze, condense, compact, constrict
Antonyms: Expand, enlarge, release, loosen
Idioms and Phrases
- Compress time: To fit more work or tasks into a shorter period. Example: "We had to compress time to finish the project before the deadline."
- Under pressure, compress: Used to describe how people or systems reduce or adapt under stress. Example: "The company had to compress its workforce under economic pressure."
Usage Examples
Example 1: You should compress the file before emailing it to reduce its size.
Example 2: The doctor applied a cold compress to reduce the swelling.
Example 3: These clothes can compress into a small travel bag easily.
Fun Fact
The word "compress" comes from the Latin word compressare, which means "to press together." It's been used since the 14th century both in medical and technological contexts.
Famous Quote
"Technology compresses time and space, connecting people across the world instantly." Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "compress" mean?
a) To explode
b) To stretch out
c) To press or squeeze tightly
d) To color something
Answer: c) To press or squeeze tightly
2. Which of these is a synonym of "compress"?
a) Expand
b) Condense
c) Increase
d) Separate
Answer: b) Condense
3. Which is an antonym of "compress"?
a) Shrink
b) Tighten
c) Enlarge
d) Press
Answer: c) Enlarge
4. Which sentence uses "compress" correctly?
a) She compressed the files to save storage space.
b) He compress his food every night.
c) The compress is eating too much.
d) They compress to go for a walk.
Answer: a) She compressed the files to save storage space.
5. What does a "cold compress" refer to?
a) A type of heating machine
b) A bag of ice or cold cloth used to relieve pain
c) A food item
d) A workout tool
Answer: b) A bag of ice or cold cloth used to relieve pain
