restrain

Main Entry:: re·strain
Pronunciation:: \ri-ˈstrān\
Function:: transitive verb
Etymology:: Middle English restraynen, from Anglo-French restreindre, from Latin restringere to restrain, restrict, from re- + stringere to bind tight — more at strain
Date:: 14th century

1 a: to prevent from doing, exhibiting, or expressing something <restrained the child from jumping> b: to limit, restrict, or keep under control <try to restrain your anger>2: to moderate or limit the force, effect, development, or full exercise of <restrain trade>3: to deprive of liberty ; especially : to place under arrest or restraint

— re·strain·able

\-ˈstrā-nə-bəl\ adjective

— re·strain·er noun

synonyms restrain , check , curb , bridle mean to hold back from or control in doing something. restrain suggests holding back by force or persuasion from acting or from going to extremes <restrained themselves from laughing>. check implies restraining or impeding a progress, activity, or impetus <trying to check government spending>. curb suggests an abrupt or drastic checking <learn to curb your appetite>. bridle implies keeping under control by subduing or holding in <bridle an impulse to throw the book down>.

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