contraction
//kənˈtræk.ʃən//
Noun
contractionSingular
contractionsPlural
1
The process of becoming smaller or shorter, or the state of being reduced in size.
The contraction of the metal occurs when it cools down.
2
A shortened form of a word or group of words, with the omitted letters often replaced by an apostrophe (e.g., 'don't' for 'do not').
"Can't" is a contraction of "cannot."
3
A tightening or shortening of a muscle, especially the uterine muscles during childbirth.
Her contractions were coming every five minutes.