constraint Hear it!

constraint definition

con·straint (kən strānt′)

noun

  1. a constraining or being constrained; specif.,
    1. confinement or restriction
    2. compulsion or coercion
    1. repression of natural feelings or behavior
    2. forced, unnatural manner; awkwardness
  3. something that constrains

Etymology: ME constreinte < OFr: see constrain

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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