Pronunciation

/shrɪŋk/

Definitions

Noun

A shrink (1) refers to a person who specializes in treating mental health issues, particularly anxiety disorders and depression, through psychotherapy or medication. (2) In retail context, it is a reduction in size, quantity, or value, often of clothing that has been washed or dried.

Verb

To shrink (v) means:

1. To become smaller in size, dimensions, or extent, as when fabric or material contracts after washing.
2. To decrease in size, amount, or value over time, as in a recession or a shrinking economy.
3. To contract or reduce one’s behavior, opinions, or ambitions due to fear, stress, or insecurity.

Adjective

Shrunk describes something that has undergone shrinkage, such as a garment that has been laundered.

Adverb

• Shrinkage is the act of shrinking, often referring to the reduction in size during a process.

Phrases

• “The fabric shrank in the wash.”
• “She wore a shrunk sweater that no longer fit properly.”
• “The economy has experienced a period of shrinkage.”
• “He decided to downsize his business after the recession.”

Example Sentences

• Noun: “She went to a shrink to discuss her anxiety issues.”
• Verb: “The heat caused the paint on the wall to shrink and peel.”
• Adjective: “The old map was shrunk to fit the frame.”
• Adverb: “The company implemented measures to minimize shrinkage in their inventory.”

Synonyms

• Contract
• Reduce
• Contractile
• Constrict
• Decrease (in size) -萎缩 (in Chinese)