Learn the meaning of contraction in different contexts, such as reduction, muscle movement, and word shortening. See how to use contractions in grammar and business English, and find translations and examples. A contraction is a shortened version of the spoken and written forms of a word, syllable, or word group, created by omission of internal letters and sounds. Contractions in English: What is a Contraction ? A contraction is a word or phrase that has been abbreviated by removing one or more letters. There are two main types of contractions. One is using apostrophes to replace letters and the second is compressing words. For example: is not = isn't and Mister = Mr. In these examples, the contractions are in bold. Check out our list of contractions below. Contractions Sentence Examples Contractions are shortened forms of words, in which some letters ... contraction संज्ञा the act of decreasing (something) in size or volume or quantity or scope (physiology) a shortening or tensing of a part or organ (especially of a muscle or muscle fiber) पर्यायवाची muscle contraction , muscular contraction a word formed from two or more words by omitting or combining some sounds उदाहरण "`o'clock' is a contraction of `of the clock'""`won't' is a contraction of `will not'" "`o'clock' is a contraction of `of the ...