A force of compression is a type of mechanical force that acts to compress or shorten an object along the direction of the force. When a compressive force is applied to an object, it tends to squeeze or push the object together, causing it to deform or change shape by becoming shorter or thinner in the direction of the force.

Compressive forces are commonly experienced in everyday life, such as when a heavy object is placed on top of a surface, the surface experiences a compressive force. Structural elements like columns, beams, and foundations in buildings also experience compressive forces that they must be designed to withstand.

In physics and engineering, compressive forces are an important concept in the study of material properties, structural analysis, and the design of load-bearing components. Understanding the behavior of materials under compressive stress is crucial for ensuring the safety and integrity of various structures and systems.