narrows 1 of 2

Definition of narrowsnext
as in strait
a narrow body of water between two land masses we had to cautiously navigate our dinghy through the narrows before reaching the open water of the bay

Synonyms & Similar Words

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narrows

2 of 2

verb

present tense third-person singular of narrow

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for narrows
Verb
  • But once utilities begin raising lake levels ahead of summer recreation, Jones said, the margin tightens.
    Nora O'Neill, Charlotte Observer, 10 Feb. 2026
  • But as the degree programs have grown in popularity, disagreements continue to emerge between California State University and California Community Colleges as competition for students tightens.
    Christopher Buchanan, Los Angeles Times, 10 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • That’s because the physical exertion of shoveling increases heart rate and blood pressure, while at the same time the cold constricts blood vessels–a double whammy of stressors.
    Amy Feldman, Forbes.com, 28 Jan. 2026
  • Breathing in cold air constricts blood vessels, which elevates blood pressure and narrows coronary arteries, increasing the risk of cardiac strain.
    Manahil Ahmad, The Providence Journal, 25 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Afterward, Denver7 heard from Douglas County residents, including a Parker woman who feels the move hinders productive conversations around local issues and is merely a way for the commissioners to dodge criticism and accountability.
    thedenverchannel.com, Denver Post, 5 Feb. 2026
  • Willis was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia (FTD) in 2023, which hinders his ability to communicate.
    Lexi Carson, HollywoodReporter, 28 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • The strategy not only reduces costs but also lessens Chinese companies’ exposure to geopolitical risks.
    John Liu, CNN Money, 11 Feb. 2026
  • Ideal for the ultimate no-makeup makeup look, for which Westman is known, the innovative blush harnesses biomimicry pigment technology, which lessens the risk of inflammation by encapsulating the synthetic pigments in the blush.
    Jenny Berg, Vogue, 9 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Infliction of pain and suffering as a consequence for a person’s actions impedes health brain development through the release of stress hormones, research shows.
    Lina Ruiz, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 7 Feb. 2026
  • When enforcement activity impedes the rights to assemble, document and criticize government action, that chills those rights, and the consequences extend beyond any single demonstration.
    Yohuru Williams, The Conversation, 4 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Wave action and fragile ice obstructs rescue potential.
    Sarah Moore, Freep.com, 4 Feb. 2026
  • Don't tail large vehicles closely - Trucks or buses can kick up a water spray that obstructs visibility.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 30 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Protesters have urged local officers to limit cooperation with ICE as much as possible, while Davis has said state law restricts the department’s discretion.
    Austin Sanders, Austin American Statesman, 5 Feb. 2026
  • The Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors approved an ordinance last October that restricts the use of these zones for federal immigration enforcement.
    Steve Large, CBS News, 4 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Maintain a safe distance from large vehicles - Trucks or buses can produce a water spray that hampers visibility.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 1 Feb. 2026
  • Maintain a safe distance from large vehicles - Trucks or buses can produce a water spray that hampers visibility.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 29 Jan. 2026
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.

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Cite this Entry

“Narrows.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/narrows. Accessed 15 Feb. 2026.

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