Contraction

Noun

1. Senses relating to becoming involved with or entering into, especially entering into a contract. An act of incurring debt; also , an act of acquiring something (generally negative).

   "Our contraction of debt in this quarter has reduced our ability to attract investors."

2. An act of incurring debt; also , an act of acquiring something (generally negative).

   "Our contraction of debt in this quarter has reduced our ability to attract investors."

3. An act of entering into a contract or agreement; specifically, a contract of marriage; a contracting; also , a betrothal.
4. The process of contracting or becoming infected with a disease.

   "the contraction of malaria"

5. Senses relating to pulling together or shortening. A (sometimes reversible) contracting or reduction in length, scope, size, or volume; a narrowing, a shortening, a shrinking.

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