Shrinkage
(noun)
- A decrease in size, amount, or value.
- A reduction in the length of cloth or other material after washing or laundering, due to tension being released in the fibers.
Origin:
Late 17th century (as a verb in the sense "draw in, shrink"): from shrink + -age.
Examples:
- The shrinkage of the economy was caused by the recession.
- The shrinkage of the population is a concern for the future.
- The shrinkage of the company was due to mismanagement.
- The shrinkage of the fabric was noticeable after washing.
- The shrinkage of the carpet was a problem in the installation.