contracts (reflexive form)
1. to contract, to become smaller or shorter in size or length
The muscle contracts when stimulated.
O músculo contrai-se quando estimulado.
2. to shrink or reduce in volume
Metal contracts as it cools.
O metal contrai-se conforme esfria.
3. to acquire or incur (a debt, obligation, disease, etc.)
He contracted a serious illness.
Ele contraiu-se uma doença grave.
4. to become narrower or tighter
The pupil contracts in bright light.
A pupila contrai-se à luz brilhante.
Related Idioms & Phrases
contrai-se o peito (the chest tightens - feeling of emotion)
contrai-se a bolsa (the wallet contracts - spend less money)
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