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restraint definition

re·straint (ri strānt′)

noun

  1. a restraining or being restrained
  2. a restraining influence or action
  3. a means or instrument of restraining
  4. a loss or limitation of liberty; confinement
  5. control of emotions, impulses, etc.; reserve; constraint

Etymology: ME restreinte < OFr restrainte < restreindre, to restrain

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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