vasoconstriction

noun

va·​so·​con·​stric·​tion ˌvā-zō-kən-ˈstrik-shən How to pronounce vasoconstriction (audio)
: narrowing of the lumen of blood vessels

Examples of vasoconstriction in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Your blood vessels narrow in a process called vasoconstriction to conserve heat. — Alyssa Ages, Outside, 22 Feb. 2026 This is because very cold water causes a vasoconstriction of the digestive tract, which reduces blood flow and can slow absorption. — Sophia Dyer, Condé Nast Traveler, 25 May 2026 Headaches Caffeine causes vasoconstriction, the medical term for the narrowing of blood vessels. — Jillian Kubala, Health, 13 May 2026 What’s strange about this reaction, however, is that in most of the body, activating these receptors causes vasoconstriction, meaning that blood vessels narrow. — Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 11 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for vasoconstriction

Word History

Etymology

vaso- + constriction, after French vaso-constriction

First Known Use

1899, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of vasoconstriction was in 1899

Rhymes for vasoconstriction

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Browse Nearby Words

vasoactive
vasoconstriction
vasoconstrictive
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Cite this Entry

“Vasoconstriction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vasoconstriction. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

vasoconstriction

noun
va·​so·​con·​stric·​tion -kən-ˈstrik-shən How to pronounce vasoconstriction (audio)
: narrowing of the lumen of blood vessels especially as a result of vasomotor action

More from Merriam-Webster on vasoconstriction

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about vasoconstriction

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