First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
restraint
noun re·straint \ri-ˈstrānt\
: a way of limiting, controlling, or stopping something
: a device that limits a person's movement
: control over your emotions or behavior
Full Definition of RESTRAINT
1
a : an act of restraining : the state of being restrained b (1) : a means of restraining : a restraining force or influence (2) : a device that restricts movement <a restraint for children riding in cars>
2
: a control over the expression of one's emotions or thoughts
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Origin of RESTRAINT
Middle English, from Anglo-French restreinte, from restreindre
Related to RESTRAINT
- Synonyms
- continence, discipline, discretion, inhibition, refrainment, repression, reserve, constraint, self-command, self-control, self-restraint, suppression
- Antonyms
- disinhibition, incontinence, unconstraint
Rhymes with RESTRAINT
RESTRAINT Defined for Kids
restraint
noun re·straint \ri-ˈstrānt\
Definition of RESTRAINT for Kids
1
: the act of stopping or holding back : the state of being stopped or held back
2
: a force or influence that stops or holds back
3
: control over thoughts or feelings <You're angry, but show restraint.>
Medical Dictionary
restraint
noun re·straint \ri-ˈstrānt\
Medical Definition of RESTRAINT
: a device that restricts movement <restraints such as straitjackets for violent patients>
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