to shrink (fabric); to shrink; to decrease
Meanings
3 senses · 9 examplesverb
to soak fabric or fiber in water to cause shrinkage
A deliberate action in textile processing, often transitive. Also called "抽水" (chōu shuǐ).
Has this piece of cloth been pre-shrunk?
Before sewing, it's best to pre-shrink the newly bought wool fabric.
Show 1 more exampleShow fewer examples
These jeans need to be shrunk to ensure a proper fit.
verb
to shrink (of fabrics or fibers when exposed to water)
Describes an intrinsic property or the result of a process; often intransitive.
This fabric doesn't shrink.
Be careful, this pure cotton towel might shrink when washed.
Show 1 more exampleShow fewer examples
Wool sweaters tend to shrink when washed in warm water.
verb
to shrink; to decrease; to diminish (in value, size, etc.)
informalMetaphorical usage common in finance, economics, and general contexts.
The stock market's value shrank drastically after the crash.
Inflation has diminished our purchasing power.
Show 1 more exampleShow fewer examples
Due to budget cuts, the project scope had to be scaled down.