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>.