Main Entry: ¹re·frain

Pronunciation: \ri-ˈfrān\

Function: verb

Etymology: Middle English refreynen, from Anglo-French refreiner, refreindre, from Latin refrenare, from re- + frenum bridle — more at frenum

Date: 14th century

transitive verb archaic : curb, restrainintransitive verb : to keep oneself from doing, feeling, or indulging in something and especially from following a passing impulse <refrained from having dessert>

— re·frain·ment \-mənt\ noun