First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
restrain
verb re·strain \ri-ˈstrān\
: to prevent (a person or animal) from doing something
: to prevent (a person or animal) from moving by using physical force
: to keep (something) under control
Full Definition of RESTRAIN
transitive verb
1
a : to prevent from doing, exhibiting, or expressing something <restrained the child from jumping> b : to limit, restrict, or keep under control <try to restrain your anger>
2
: to moderate or limit the force, effect, development, or full exercise of <restrain trade>
3
: to deprive of liberty; especially : to place under arrest or restraint
— re·strain·able \-ˈstrā-nə-bəl\ adjective
— re·strain·er noun
See restrain defined for English-language learners
See restrain defined for kids
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Origin of RESTRAIN
Middle English restraynen, from Anglo-French restreindre, from Latin restringere to restrain, restrict, from re- + stringere to bind tight — more at strain
Related to RESTRAIN
Synonym Discussion of RESTRAIN
restrain, check, curb, bridle mean to hold back from or control in doing something. restrain suggests holding back by force or persuasion from acting or from going to extremes <restrained themselves from laughing>. check implies restraining or impeding a progress, activity, or impetus <trying to check government spending>. curb suggests an abrupt or drastic checking <learn to curb your appetite>. bridle implies keeping under control by subduing or holding in <bridle an impulse to throw the book down>.
RESTRAINABLE Defined for Kids
restrain
verb re·strain \ri-ˈstrān\
re·strainedre·strain·ing
Definition of RESTRAIN for Kids
1
: to keep from doing something <I wanted to speak, but restrained myself.>
2
: to keep back : curb <He couldn't restrain his laughter.>
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