Definitions

restrict

[ri-strikt] / rɪˈstrɪkt /

VERB

confine, limit situation or ability to participate

Synonyms

STRONGEST

curb decrease define diminish hamper impede inhibit limit narrow reduce regulate restrain shorten

STRONG

bind bound chain check circumscribe constrict contain contract cramp delimit delimitate demarcate encircle enclose inclose moderate modify qualify shrink surround temper tether tie

WEAK

bottle up come down on cool down demark hang up hem in hold back hold down keep within bounds keep within limits pin down prelimit put away put on ice send up shut in

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aid allow assist develop encourage enlarge expand extend free grow help increase lengthen raise

STRONG

let go liberate loose loosen open permit release stretch unbind unfasten unloose untie

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.

Lanning said she and other teachers frequently buy classroom materials out of pocket, but healthcare costs severely restrict their ability to continue to do so.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 16, 2026

Starmer and others have also declined, saying the focus for Europeans is on how to free up traffic, rather than restrict it further.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

Iran had already taken steps to restrict access to the strait in recent weeks, disrupting maritime traffic and raising global economic concerns.

From Salon • Apr. 12, 2026

On Thursday, Lebanon's cabinet instructed government security forces to restrict weapons in Beirut exclusively to state institutions.

From BBC • Apr. 9, 2026

“Never again. We shall restrict ourselves to more tasteful ventures in the future. Legal, I can’t promise.”

From "Artemis Fowl" by Eoin Colfer

Vocabulary lists containing restrict

Tier 2 Words for the SBAC ELA Items

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List 9

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"Too Young to Drive?" and "Rules of the Road"

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