What does "compact" mean?

1. (small and space-efficient) small and designed to fit into a little space. 2. (dense or packed) closely packed together or very solid. 3. (to compress) to press something together so that it becomes smaller or harder. 4. (a formal agreement) a formal promise or agreement between two or more people or groups. 5. (makeup case) a small case with a mirror and face powder that you carry in a bag.

How do you use "compact"?

Usually precedes the noun it describes. This is a transitive verb requiring a direct object. Often used with the verb 'to sign' or 'to enter into'.

compact

adj. · v. · n.

US //ˈkɑmpækt// com·pact

1 small and space-efficient (adj.)
B1 Intermediate

small and designed to fit into a little space.

having all necessary features or parts fitting neatly into a small volume or space.

Example

The new laptop is very compact and fits easily into my backpack.

Example

The architect designed a compact living area that managed to include a full kitchen and a workspace without feeling cramped.

Usage

Usually precedes the noun it describes.
- small
- handy
- space saving
- bulky
- large
2 dense or packed (adj.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

closely packed together or very solid.

closely and firmly packed together; having high density.

Example

The snow was so compact that we could walk on top of it.

Example

The geologist explained that the compact layers of sedimentary rock had been formed over millions of years of intense pressure.
- loose
- spread out

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3 to compress (v.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

to press something together so that it becomes smaller or harder.

to exert pressure on a substance so that it becomes more dense or occupies less space.

Example

The machine compacts the waste into small cubes for recycling.

Example

Before laying the foundation, the construction crew used heavy machinery to compact the soil and ensure a stable base for the building.

Usage

This is a transitive verb requiring a direct object.
- expand
- loosen
4 a formal agreement (n.)
C1 Advanced Formal Law

a formal promise or agreement between two or more people or groups.

a formal agreement or contract between different parties, often used in political or legal contexts.

Example

The two nations signed a compact to protect the shared river.

Example

The Mayflower Compact served as an early social contract, establishing a rudimentary form of self-government for the settlers in the new colony.

Usage

Often used with the verb 'to sign' or 'to enter into'.
5 makeup case (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

a small case with a mirror and face powder that you carry in a bag.

a small, portable case containing a mirror and cosmetic powder, typically designed for use in a handbag.

Example

She took a small compact out of her purse to check her lipstick.

Example

The vintage silver compact was an heirloom passed down from her grandmother, still containing the original glass mirror.
- case
- vanity case