Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of snake: A constrictor is a large, non-venomous snake that kills its prey by coiling around it and squeezing tightly, causing suffocation or circulatory arrest.
   • A muscle or structure that compresses: In anatomy, a constrictor is a muscle that narrows or compresses a passage or opening in the body.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (Zoology):
  • The boa constrictor is one of the most well-known constrictors.
  • Constrictors, like pythons and anacondas, do not use venom to subdue their prey.
• Noun (Anatomy):
  • The pharyngeal constrictor muscles are involved in swallowing.

Advanced Usage

• "Constructor snake": This is a common but redundant phrase; "constrictor" alone is sufficient to refer to this type of snake.
  • The zoo has a new exhibit featuring several large constrictors.
• Used in technical/biological descriptions to specify the method of predation.
  • The study focused on the feeding mechanics of various constrictor species.

Variants and Related Words

• Constrict (verb): To make narrower or tighter by squeezing or contracting.
  • The snake will constrict its prey.
• Constriction (noun): The action of constricting or the state of being constricted.
  • Death was caused by constriction of the airways.
• Constrictive (adjective): Serving to constrict.
  • The bandage had a constrictive effect.

Synonyms

• Boa (specifically for snakes of the family Boidae).
• Squeezer (informal, non-technical).
• Compressor (more general, often for anatomical or mechanical contexts).

Related Phrases

• Constructor coil: Refers to the tightening coil a snake makes around its prey.
  • The prey was trapped in the snake's powerful constrictor coil.

Related Idioms

• To be a constrictor: Used metaphorically to describe a person, situation, or force that feels suffocating or overly restrictive.
  • His micromanaging style was a real constrictor on the team's creativity.

Noun

1. any of various large nonvenomous snakes that kill their prey by crushing it in its coils