constraint

constraint

noun

Definition of CONSTRAINT

1

the checking of one's true feelings and impulses when dealing with others <in civilized society people do not just say or do whatever they feel like—they exercise some constraint>

Synonyms continence, discipline, discretion, inhibition, refrainment, repression, reserve, restraint, self-command, self-control, self-restraint, suppression

Related Words command, control, mastery, possession; self-censorship, self-containment, self-denial, self-discipline, self-government, self-mastery, will, willpower; composure, self-poise, self-possession; aloofness, detachedness, distance; bashfulness, modesty, shyness; reticence, silence, taciturnity

Near Antonyms self-abandonment, uninhibitedness; unrestrainedness; gratification, indulgence, overindulgence, self-indulgence; bluntness, candor, frankness; immoderacy, intemperance

Antonyms disinhibition, incontinence, unconstraint

2

something that limits one's freedom of action or choice <put legal constraints on the board's activities>

Synonyms check, circumscription, condition, constraint, curb, fetter, limitation, restraint, stricture

Related Words exception, proviso, qualification, reservation, stipulation, strings; ban, prohibition, proscription

Near Antonyms freedom, latitude

3

the use of power to impose one's will on another <parental constraint can take several different forms, including a denial of the approval that children usually seek from their parents>

Synonyms arm-twisting, coercion, compulsion, constraint, duress, pressure

Related Words browbeating, bulldozing, bullying; fear, intimidation, menace, sword, terror, terrorism, threat, violence; squeeze, squeeze play; might, muscle, potency, puissance, strength; hardheadedness, self-will, willfulness; strain, stress

Near Antonyms agreement, approval, consent, permission; convincing, persuasion, reason, suasion