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

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>

: to moderate or limit the force, effect, development, or full exercise of <restrain trade>

: 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

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

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to RESTRAIN

Synonyms: bridle, check, constrain, contain, curb, govern, hold, inhibit, keep, measure, pull in, regulate, rein (in), control, rule, tame

Antonyms: lose

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>.

RESTRAINING Defined for Kids