restrain

re·strain

verb \ri-ˈstrān\

Definition of RESTRAIN

transitive verb

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

Examples of RESTRAIN

1. He could not restrain the dog from attacking.
2. He could restrain himself no longer.
3. Hospital orderlies needed to restrain the patient.
4. He was restrained and placed in a holding cell.
5. He could barely restrain his anger.
6. The manufacturer took measures to restrain costs.

Origin of RESTRAIN

Middle English restraynen, from Anglo-French restreindre, from Latin restringere to restrain, restrict, from re- + stringere to bind tight — more at strain

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to RESTRAIN

Synonyms: bridle, check, constrain, contain, curb, govern, hold, inhibit, keep, measure, pull in, regulate, rein (in), control, rule, tame

Antonyms: lose

Related Words: bottle (up), choke (back), hold back, mince, muffle, pocket, repress, sink, smother, squelch, stifle, strangle, suppress, swallow; arrest, interrupt, stop; block, hamper, handcuff, hinder, impede, obstruct; gag, muzzle, silence

Near Antonyms: liberate, loose, loosen, unleash; air, express, take out, vent

see all synonyms and antonyms

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Synonym Discussion of RESTRAIN

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>.