WordLens

cramp

1 of 2verb
/kræmp/
Forms:cramps,cramping,cramped,cramped
1

to limit or stop something from moving or progressing freely

transitive
  • The traffic jam cramped our journey to the airport.
  • Don't let fear cramp your ability to take risks and try new things.
  • The small workspace cramped the team's ability to collaborate effectively.
  • Overthinking can cramp your creativity and hinder problem-solving.
Synonyms:
hamperstranglehalter
2

to experience a sharp, painful tightening or contraction in a muscle

  • After running for miles, she suddenly cramped in her calf and had to stop.
  • He cramped in the middle of the night, waking up from the intense pain.
  • She felt her leg cramp during the workout and had to stretch it out.
  • The swimmer cramped halfway through the race, struggling to finish.
  • The intense workout caused him to cramp in both thighs, making it hard to walk.
3

to cause someone or something to experience a sudden, painful contraction of a muscle or a restriction

transitive
  • The cold water cramped his leg, making him stop swimming.
  • The long hours of sitting cramped her back, leaving her stiff and sore.
  • The intense exercise cramped his arm, forcing him to pause.
  • The awkward position for too long cramped her neck.
  • The tight shoes cramped her toes, causing discomfort throughout the day.
4

to secure or fasten something using a tool or device called a cramp that hold pieces together

transitive
  • The workers cramped the beams into position before the cement set.
  • The technician cramped the parts together to ensure they were aligned correctly.
  • He quickly cramped the joint so it wouldn’t shift while the glue set.
  • The woodworker cramped the edges to make sure the table top was perfectly level.
  • The metal was cramped into the mold to prevent movement during the casting process.