Shrink means to become smaller in size, amount, or importance. It can also mean to make something smaller. For example, clothes can shrink in the wash, or a business may shrink if it loses customers.
People use shrink in everyday English when talking about things getting smaller over time or after some action. You might hear it about food, clothing, numbers, budgets, or even feelings like fear, as in “He shrank away from the noise.”
Meaning & Usage
Shrink is used when something becomes less in size, length, or amount. It can happen naturally or because of heat, water, loss, or change. It is a common word in daily conversation and in business or news reports too.
Examples
“My sweater shrank after I washed it.”
“The company’s profits shrank this year.”
“Her confidence shrank after the bad news.”
What does shrink mean in clothing?
In clothing, shrink means to become smaller, usually after washing or drying.
Can shrink be used for numbers or money?
Yes. People often say something shrinks when it becomes less, such as a budget, sales, or profits.
Is shrink only used for physical things?
No. It can also describe feelings, confidence, or other things that become weaker or smaller in effect.
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