Pinched

Characterized by a compressed or drawn appearance, often resulting from pressure, cold, or lack of blood flow. It can also describe a restricted or tight feeling, either physically or figuratively. Further, it can indicate a state of being stingy or miserly, relating to money or resources. A 'pinched' look can convey disapproval or a feeling of discomfort or suffering, sometimes causing facial contortions. It often suggests something is being constrained or limited, whether tangible or abstract.

Pinched meaning with examples

• The hiker's face looked pinched from the biting wind and harsh altitude, the cold air taking a toll on his facial features and coloring. His lips were tight and thin, a clear sign of the frigid conditions he endured during the climb. The cold weather caused his already thin frame to shiver.
• Her pinched expression conveyed her disapproval of the proposal. Her brows were furrowed, her lips pressed together, and the lines on her forehead deepened. The disapproval was evident, making her opinions clear. She barely concealed her dissatisfaction with the suggested plans.
• The businessman's budget was pinched, forcing him to make difficult decisions about spending. Cuts to spending made difficult decisions necessary. Every expense was carefully considered to limit the financial burden. The financial constraints limited his activities.
• The little boy had a pinched feeling in his chest whenever he was forced to go to the dentist. It was as if an invisible hand was pressing on his lungs. The fear of the dentist seemed overwhelming, restricting his breath. He found going to the dentist restrictive.
• The artist felt a pinched sense of inspiration due to the prolonged creative block and felt that they were unable to express the ideas in their mind, experiencing difficulty. This led to a general sense of being held back and restricted by the inability to create.
• The artist felt restricted by the artistic block.