clampdown

1 of 2

noun

clamp·​down ˈklamp-ˌdau̇n 

: the act or action of making regulations and restrictions more stringent

… a violent clampdown on suspected Communists …

—Marie Arana

clamp down

2 of 2

verb

clamped down; clamping down; clamps down

intransitive verb

: to impose restrictions : crack down

the police are clamping down on speeders

Synonyms of clampdown

Verb

• quell
• suppress
• crack down (on)
• subdue
• sit on

Examples of clampdown in a Sentence

Verb

the need to clamp down on petty crime in the city

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

While the election was generally free of violence and widespread fraud, international observers expressed concern over clampdowns on the media and political opposition during the run-up. — The Christian Science Monitor, Christian Science Monitor, 19 Aug. 2026

But for a pluralistic educational institution in the middle of New York, uncertainty is a poor excuse for a clampdown without end. — Justin Davidson, Curbed, 19 Aug. 2026

Verb

Orange County commissioners want to clamp down on the importation of exotic animals for commercial entertainment following the deaths of dozens of animals at Sloth World, a controversial attraction that never opened. — Rylan Digiacomo-Rapp, The Orlando Sentinel, 5 Aug. 2026

Russia has clamped down hard on dissent since going to war in Ukraine in 2022. — Reuters, CNN Money, 4 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1940, in the meaning defined above

Verb

1938, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for clampdown

• adown
• blowdown
• breakdown
• countdown
• crackdown
• crosstown
• downtown
• drawdown
• dropdown
• facedown
• godown
• hometown

Kids Definition

clamp down

verb

: to act in a strict and forceful manner to stop something

laws clamping down on fraud