Constrain definition
To force; compel; oblige.
He was constrained to agree.
verb
To constrain is to impose limitations or restrictions on someone or something, or to force yourself or someone else to act in a certain way.
When you limit someone's freedom, this is an example of a situation where you constrain that person.
When you compel someone to follow a specific course of action, this is an example of a situation where you constrain that person.
When you force yourself to act in a certain manner, this is an example of a situation where you constrain your behavior.
verb
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To compel by physical, moral, or circumstantial force; oblige.
Felt constrained to object to his behavior.
verb
To produce in a forced or inhibited manner.
verb
To keep within certain limits; confine or limit.
verb
To inhibit or restrain; hold back.
verb
To force into, or hold in, close bounds; confine.
verb
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To hold back by force; restrain.
verb
Origin of constrain
- Middle English constreinen from Old French constraindre constraign- from Latin cōnstringere to restrain, compress com- com- stringere to bind, press together streig- in Indo-European roots
From American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition
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From Wiktionary