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.

In law and social science, we call this impact a chilling effect – the behavioral tendency for people in face of a threat to self-censor and restrain their activities for self-protection.

From Salon • May 28, 2026

“This heightened competition has pressured online florists to restrain prices and speed up delivery, driving down profit for major companies like 1-800-Flowers.com and FTD Companies,” analyst Matthew Buchko wrote in a February report.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 22, 2026

The order would also “permanently” restrain and enjoin Musk’s trust from violating the section of the Exchange Act that was the subject of this case, according to the text of the proposed settlement.

From MarketWatch • May 4, 2026

They continue to repeat the instruction while the suspect is on the ground and as they work to restrain him.

From BBC • Apr. 29, 2026

He heard Nately running after him to restrain him, calling his name.

From "Catch-22" by Joseph Heller

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!