1
as in discipline
the checking of one's true feelings and impulses when dealing with others
it will take a great deal of restraint to keep from telling her how ugly that dress is
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in restriction
something that limits one's freedom of action or choice
civil libertarians contend that the new laws place too many restraints on our constitutionally guaranteed rights
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in temperance
the power to control one's actions, impulses, or emotions
he shows very little restraint or tact when expressing his opinions about others
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of restraint
Never a forward accused of timidness, his offside restraint is not down to any reluctance to make surging runs in behind.
—
Conor O'Neill,
New York Times,
24 June 2026
That sort of attention to detail is what separates a Universal or Disney coaster from so much of the industry — even if riders will be clutching their restraints too hard to notice the discrepancies in each car’s engine roar.
—
Todd Martens,
Los Angeles Times,
23 June 2026
The pilot managed to release his seat restraints, open a cargo door, deploy his emergency parachute and jump as the plane spiraled into a field, the report said.
—
Judy L. Thomas,
Kansas City Star,
23 June 2026
The collection’s balance between playfulness and restraint reminds me of Oh’s wordplay in the collection.
—
Literary Hub,
12 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for restraint
Conor O'Neill,
New York Times,
24 June 2026
That sort of attention to detail is what separates a Universal or Disney coaster from so much of the industry — even if riders will be clutching their restraints too hard to notice the discrepancies in each car’s engine roar.
—
Todd Martens,
Los Angeles Times,
23 June 2026
The pilot managed to release his seat restraints, open a cargo door, deploy his emergency parachute and jump as the plane spiraled into a field, the report said.
—
Judy L. Thomas,
Kansas City Star,
23 June 2026
The collection’s balance between playfulness and restraint reminds me of Oh’s wordplay in the collection.
—
Literary Hub,
12 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for restraint
Recent Examples of Synonyms for restraint
Noun
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Platforms built around incentive capture, funding cost discipline and structural durability are well-positioned to deliver the hedge that households are now actively seeking.
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The Honorary Award is given to honor extraordinary distinction in lifetime achievement, exceptional contributions to the state of motion picture arts and sciences in any discipline, or outstanding service to the Academy.
Noun
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Her remarks come amid mounting allegations that military restrictions slowed aid deliveries and prevented civilians—and in some cases rescue crews—from getting to critical areas during the early phase of the emergency.
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Davidson is one of several parents who are a part of a local movement to advocate for more regulation and restrictions on using technology in classrooms.
Noun
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In the winter of 1920, the United States entered Prohibition in the United States after years of campaigning by temperance groups who believed alcohol sat at the root of many social ills.
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Another was promoting temperance realizing alcoholism could destroy families.
Noun
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Anderson Daniel Salcedo Lozano, 22, grew up amid the chaos of the Maduro years, which were marked by long lines for bread and medicine, rising infant mortality, spiraling inflation and the violent repression of protests.
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In Venezuela, where confidence in institutions had already eroded after years of economic collapse and political repression, the earthquake may be accelerating that process.
Noun
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Her colleague Maria Amato adds a harder constraint — the most effective leadership development happens on the job, inside the relationships management layers exist to create.
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How supply chains are slowing defense production S&P Global Ratings found the same constraint.
Noun
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But despite his nerves, Byrd conquered his fear of flying to be with his friend of 81 years.
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Further, nerve damage from surgery wouldn’t explain her other symptoms.
Noun
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Put inhibitions aside to experience the latest episode of Doc Talk, hosted by John Ridley (12 Years a Slave, Shirley), and Matt Carey, Deadline’s senior documentary editor.
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Darkness removes that inhibition and allows the pineal gland to release melatonin.
Noun
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There won't be any ticket limitations per customer, and parking will be free.
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The researchers addressed that limitation by increasing the surface area of the carbon electrode and loading it with vanadium oxide, a material that can store a large amount of energy.
Cite this Entry
“Restraint.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/restraint. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.
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