Restrain definition

rĭ-strān
restrained restraining restrains
See word origin
Frequency:
To keep under control.
verb
5
1
To hold back from action; check; suppress; curb.
verb
2
1
To restrain is defined as to hold back or keep under control.

An example of restrain is someone being put in handcuffs.

verb
0
0
To hold, fasten, or secure so as to prevent or limit movement.

Hair restrained by a bandana; a child restrained by a seat belt.

verb
0
0
To hold back or keep in check; control.

Was able restrain his emotions.

verb
0
0
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To prevent (a person or group) from doing something or acting in a certain way.

She was restrained from selling the house by her fond memories.

verb
0
0
To control or keep in check.
verb
0
0
verb
0
0
verb
0
0
To deprive of physical liberty, as by shackling, arresting, etc.
verb
0
1
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To limit; restrict.
verb
0
1

Origin of restrain

  • Middle English restreinen from Old French restraindre restreign- from Latin restringere to bind back restrict

    From American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition

  • Middle French restraindre, from Latin rÄ“stringō (“fasten, tighten")

    From Wiktionary

Restrain Sentence Examples

  • The acts were directed to restrain the lending of money at usurious rates.

  • Melanchthon felt himself powerless to restrain the tumult.

  • It is a sad story, but if you will try to restrain your tears I will tell you about it.

  • Nasty bitches like me eat them alive, but in your case I'll try to restrain myself.

  • Princess Mary could no longer restrain herself and wept while she gazed at his face.

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Words near restrain in the Dictionary