Definitions

constrain

[kuhn-streyn] / kənˈstreɪn /

VERB

force; restrain

Synonyms

STRONGEST

bind constrict curb hold down inhibit necessitate stifle

STRONG

ban bar bridle chain check coerce compel concuss confine cork deny deprive disallow drive hog-tie immure impel imprison incarcerate intern jail make oblige pressure pressurize urge withhold

WEAK

bottle up cool off hem in hold back hold in keep lid on put half nelson on shotgun

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aid allow assist encourage free help loosen release

STRONG

delay discourage dissuade halt indulge leave alone let go liberate permit repress stop

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.

But it warned that "if instability in the Middle East persists, rising costs, delays and limited transport capacity are likely to constrain humanitarian operations further."

From BBC • May 2, 2026

The concentrated hard-disk drive market allows Western Digital and Seagate to constrain supply, raise prices, and secure long-term contracts.

From Barron's • Apr. 27, 2026

Language, metaphors, narratives, structures—all these exist to explain, rather than constrain, our desires.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026

Getting crosswise with public opinion is sometimes enough to constrain a president.

From Slate • Apr. 8, 2026

Few rules constrain the exercise of prosecutorial discretion.

From "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander

Vocabulary lists containing constrain

Just Mercy

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Excerpt from "The Declaration of Independence"

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Essential English Vocabulary, List 3

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