Two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have intriguing physic properties and offer an exciting platform to explore many features that are important for future devices. In this work, we synthesized monolayer WS₂ as an example to study the optical response with hydrostatic pressure. The Raman results show a continuous tuning of the lattice vibrations that is induced by hydrostatic pressure. We further demonstrate an efficient pressure-induced change of the band structure and carrier dynamics via transient absorption measurements. We found that two time constants can be attributed to the capture process of two kinds of defect states, with the pressure increasing from 0.55 GPa to 2.91 GPa, both of capture processes were accelerated, and there is an inflection point within the pressure range of 1.56 GPa to 1.89 GPa. Our findings provide valuable information for the design of future optoelectronic devices.