Definitions

restrain

[ri-streyn] / rɪˈstreɪn /

VERB

keep under control; hold back

Synonyms

STRONGEST

confine constrain control curb curtail detain deter govern hamper hinder inhibit keep down kill limit prevent repress restrict subdue suppress

STRONG

arrest bind bridle chain check circumscribe contain control cool cork debar delimit direct fetter gag guide harness hold impound imprison jail keep manacle muzzle pinion proscribe stay

WEAK

bottle up box up choke back crack down hem in hogtie keep in line lock up pull back sit on tie down tie up

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aid allow assist encourage free help let go liberate permit promote release start turn on

STRONG

abandon forsake give up leave loose loosen misguide mislead neglect set free

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Another tip: Restrain yourself from cranking the thermostat too high when you come into your home.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 20, 2021

Her advice: Restrain your dog in the back seat with a harness, with the leash clipped on, in case Dash decides to dart out of the car during a pit stop.

From Washington Post • Apr. 26, 2018

Restrain the impulse, and you may only bring forth empty images, beautiful and static.

From Time Magazine Archive

Restrain your tongue from saying anything but what is good.

From Arabian Wisdom by Wortabet, John

Restrain thy ardour—but ceaselessly intreat, That André may at least die as he lived, A soldier.

From André by Moses, Montrose Jonas

Vocabulary lists containing restrain

List 10

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Seedfolks

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

"Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God"

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!