nonrestrictive
adjective
non·re·stric·tive
ˌnän-ri-ˈstrik-tiv 
: not restrictive
specifically
: not limiting the reference of a modified word or phrase
Examples of nonrestrictive in a Sentence
It's a nonrestrictive diet that stresses eating smaller portions rather than not eating certain foods.
In the sentence “My brother, who works at a restaurant, just got his first car,” “who works at a restaurant” is a nonrestrictive clause.
Recent Examples on the Web
Plus, the dress is outfitted with an elastic bodice and nonrestrictive silhouette for plenty of airflow.
—
Clara McMahon, People.com, 9 Apr. 2025
As for dresses and skirts, flowy and nonrestrictive styles, like this $26 maxi skirt, are best for beating the heat.
—Alyssa Grabinski, People.com, 29 Mar. 2025
The flexible material is also nonrestrictive, offering a custom fit that moves with your feet for even more comfort.
—Clara McMahon, Peoplemag, 3 Apr. 2024
Exempted individuals are expected to wear a nonrestrictive alternative such as a face shield with a drape on the bottom edge.
—Los Angeles Times, 25 Aug. 2021
Even before sweeping work-from-home policies shifted apparel preferences toward the nonrestrictive, soft bralettes had earned the affection of consumers seeking comfort.
—Chavie Lieber, WSJ, 20 Sep. 2022
Moreover, gun safety advocates around the country are taking to the polls as single-issue voters, said Crifasi, countering the decades of voters on the flip side that have historically voted solely in favor of nonrestrictive gun laws.
—Renae Reints, Fortune, 13 Aug. 2019
In the new study, researchers wanted to make a light, nonrestrictive glove with an open palm that felt natural to wear, while providing realistic feedback when the user touched a virtual object.
—Eva Frederick, Science | AAAS, 18 July 2019
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Clara McMahon, People.com, 9 Apr. 2025
As for dresses and skirts, flowy and nonrestrictive styles, like this $26 maxi skirt, are best for beating the heat.
—Alyssa Grabinski, People.com, 29 Mar. 2025
The flexible material is also nonrestrictive, offering a custom fit that moves with your feet for even more comfort.
—Clara McMahon, Peoplemag, 3 Apr. 2024
Exempted individuals are expected to wear a nonrestrictive alternative such as a face shield with a drape on the bottom edge.
—Los Angeles Times, 25 Aug. 2021
Even before sweeping work-from-home policies shifted apparel preferences toward the nonrestrictive, soft bralettes had earned the affection of consumers seeking comfort.
—Chavie Lieber, WSJ, 20 Sep. 2022
Moreover, gun safety advocates around the country are taking to the polls as single-issue voters, said Crifasi, countering the decades of voters on the flip side that have historically voted solely in favor of nonrestrictive gun laws.
—Renae Reints, Fortune, 13 Aug. 2019
In the new study, researchers wanted to make a light, nonrestrictive glove with an open palm that felt natural to wear, while providing realistic feedback when the user touched a virtual object.
—Eva Frederick, Science | AAAS, 18 July 2019
Cite this Entry
“Nonrestrictive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nonrestrictive. Accessed 13 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
nonrestrictive
adjective
non·re·stric·tive
ˌnän-ri-ˈstrik-tiv
1
: not serving or tending to restrict
2
: not limiting the reference of the word or phrase modified
a nonrestrictive clause
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