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.

LaGuardia is one of three airports where the FAA already restricts the number of runway slots to constrain capacity, alongside New York’s JFK International Airport and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 24, 2026

The First Amendment and decades of precedent constrain executive agencies.

From Salon • Mar. 17, 2026

Presidents have a freer hand to craft policy on the global stage, with lawmakers and courts less empowered to constrain them.

From Slate • Mar. 10, 2026

Saudi Arabia is starting to shift crude exports to its Red Sea hub at Yanbu as disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz constrain Gulf shipments.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 5, 2026

For the Arguments to induce belief, though of sufficient certainty, yet do not so constrain the mind to give its assent, but there is prudence and choice in it.

From "The Invention of Science" by David Wootton

Vocabulary lists containing constrain

Just Mercy

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!

Excerpt from "The Declaration of Independence"

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!

Essential English Vocabulary, List 3

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!