noun
restraint
rih-STRAYNT/rɪˈstreɪnt/
A restriction that limits movement or action.
The person shows restraint by stopping short of taking a second slice.
Etymology
Old French restreinte is a noun formed from a verb meaning “press together” or “curb.” That image of holding something back connects both to checking one’s impulses and to a limit that prevents action.
In context
By the exercise of that self restraint which long suffering had taught her, Stephen so managed to control herself that none of her guests realised what a blow she had received from a casual word.
More examples
- Budget restraints prevent the school from hiring another teacher.
- The court places restraints on how the money can be spent.
- The nurse checks that the restraints are not too tight.
Forms
restraint · restraints
restrain verb — To limit movement, action, or freedom.
Similar words
- restriction
- Usually a rule limiting activity, rather than a physical device.
- constraint
- Often limits choices through circumstances rather than explicit rules.