restrict

verb

re·​strict ri-ˈstrikt 

restricted; restricting; restricts

transitive verb

1

: to confine within bounds : restrain

2

: to place under restrictions as to use or distribution

Synonyms

• cap
• circumscribe
• confine
• hold down
• limit

Choose the Right Synonym for restrict

limit, restrict, circumscribe, confine mean to set bounds for.

limit implies setting a point or line (as in time, space, speed, or degree) beyond which something cannot or is not permitted to go.

visits are limited to 30 minutes

restrict suggests a narrowing or tightening or restraining within or as if within an encircling boundary.

laws intended to restrict the freedom of the press

circumscribe stresses a restriction on all sides and by clearly defined boundaries.

the work of the investigating committee was carefully circumscribed

confine suggests severe restraint and a resulting cramping, fettering, or hampering.

our choices were confined by finances

Examples of restrict in a Sentence

Her eye problem restricts her reading.

She was told to restrict the amount of salt she uses.

The new law restricts smoking in public places.

They have accused the government of trying to restrict free speech.

They say the government is trying to restrict them from speaking out.

Recent Examples on the Web

Protests resumed shortly after 7 a.m., prompting the university to close and restrict access to University Yard. —Ayana Archie, NPR, 26 Apr. 2024

Gate access is still restricted to Columbia University ID holders, and patrols will be increased for enhanced security on the campus perimeter. —Patrick Smith, NBC News, 26 Apr. 2024

North Korea North Korea restricts most of its citizens from accessing the internet. —Anna Gordon, TIME, 25 Apr. 2024

While others called for the Supreme Court to clarify whether cities have the right to enact anti-camping policies that restrict those with no shelter from sleeping outside, Horvath warned of unintended consequences. —Kevin Rector, Los Angeles Times, 25 Apr. 2024

The center of campus is usually open to city foot traffic, but, because of recent tensions, campus administrators had restricted access to Columbia I.D. holders; many of the activists, trying to stay anonymous, were careful not to swipe their I.D.s on the way in. —Andrew Marantz, The New Yorker, 25 Apr. 2024

This is a fair critique; social media platforms should build better moderation systems and restrict users who breach standards on harassment. —Natalie Schriefer, WIRED, 24 Apr. 2024

One-third of the initial award will be options and two-thirds will be restricted stock units subject to vesting terms. —Todd Spangler, Variety, 24 Apr. 2024

The United States should also restrict its military assistance to those countries that comply with international humanitarian law—not just when providing arms but also when offering financial support, intelligence, and training. —Oona A. Hathaway, Foreign Affairs, 23 Apr. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin restrictus, past participle of restringere

First Known Use

1535, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

restrict

verb

re·​strict ri-ˈstrikt 

1

: to keep within bounds

2

: to place under limits as to use

Legal Definition

restrict

transitive verb

re·​strict

1

: to subject to bounds or limits

restrict the height of buildings

restrict visitation rights

2

: to place under restrictions as to use or distribution

restricted the land to recreational use