1. To become smaller or narrower: This is the most common usage. For example:
* "The metal will contract in cold weather."
* "Her pupils contracted in the bright light."
2. To make an agreement:
* "We contracted with a local builder to renovate our kitchen."
* "The two countries contracted to provide mutual defense."
3. To become infected with a disease: This usage is less common.
* "He contracted malaria while traveling in Africa."
4. To shrink in size or extent:
* "The economy has contracted by 2%."
* "The company contracted its operations after a series of losses."
So, while "contract" is primarily known as a noun, it is a versatile word that can also function as a verb.