BusinessAugust 15, 2026

contractionary

kun-TRAK-shuh-ner-ee

Definition

Relating to or causing a decrease in the size or volume of something, specifically describing a monetary policy designed to reduce the money supply and curb inflation.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'contractio,' meaning 'to draw together' or 'to shrink.' It entered English as a noun, eventually evolving into the adjective form to describe economic policies that tighten financial conditions.

In the news

The article describes a contractionary monetary policy implemented to combat runaway inflation, which has inadvertently contributed to an investment drought by raising borrowing costs for businesses.

Investment hopes rise, but hurdles remain

Read the full article ↗

Daily Sun

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