First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
constraint
noun con·straint \kən-ˈstrānt\
: something that limits or restricts someone or something
: control that limits or restricts someone's actions or behavior
Full Definition of CONSTRAINT
1
a : the act of constraining b : the state of being checked, restricted, or compelled to avoid or perform some action <the constraint and monotony of a monastic life — Matthew Arnold> c : a constraining condition, agency, or force : check <put legal constraints on the board's activities>
2
a : repression of one's own feelings, behavior, or actions b : a sense of being constrained : embarrassment
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Origin of CONSTRAINT
Middle English, from Middle French constrainte, from constraindre
Related to CONSTRAINT
- Synonyms
- continence, discipline, discretion, inhibition, refrainment, repression, reserve, restraint, self-command, self-control, self-restraint, suppression
- Antonyms
- disinhibition, incontinence, unconstraint
CONSTRAINT Defined for Kids
constraint
noun con·straint \kən-ˈstrānt\
Definition of CONSTRAINT for Kids
1
: control that limits or restricts <The committee refused to act under constraint.>
2
: something that limits or restricts <money constraints>
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