restrictive

re·stric·tive

adj \ri-ˈstrik-tiv\

Definition of RESTRICTIVE

1

a : of or relating to restriction b : serving or tending to restrict <restrictive regulations>

2

: limiting the reference of a modified word or phrase

3

: prohibiting further negotiation

— restrictive noun

— re·stric·tive·ly adverb

— re·stric·tive·ness noun

Examples of RESTRICTIVE

1. In the sentence “The book that you ordered is out of print,” “that you ordered” is a restrictive clause.

First Known Use of RESTRICTIVE

1579

Rhymes with RESTRICTIVE

addictive, afflictive, conflictive, constrictive, inflictive, predictive, vindictive