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Showing results for restraint. Search instead for Restraint/4.
Definitions

restraint

[ri-streynt] / rɪˈstreɪnt /
NOUN
self-control
Synonyms
STRONGEST
caution constraint control moderation restriction self-discipline self-restraint
STRONG
abstemiousness abstinence coercion command compulsion confines coolness curtailment economy forbearance grip hindrance hold inhibition limitation prevention repression reserve secretiveness self-denial self-government self-possession silence suppression unnaturalness withholding
Antonyms
STRONG
aid assistance freedom help indulgence liberty release self-indulgence
WEAK
agitation arousal liberation wildness
NOUN
limitation; something that holds
Synonyms
STRONGEST
ban constraint curb embargo limit prohibition reduction restriction
STRONG
abridgment arrest bar barrier bondage bridle captivity chains check command confinement cramp decrease deprivation detention determent deterrence fetters hindrance impediment imprisonment instruction interdict manacles obstacle obstruction order pinions rein repression rope stop stoppage straitjacket string taboo weight
Antonyms
STRONGEST
allowance enlargement permission
STRONG
advantage aid assistance beginning continuation encouragement expansion freedom go help independence indulgence liberation liberty license promotion release start support
WEAK
agitation arousal wildness

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.

And the lack of churn has also been credited to White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, who by most accounts has enforced significant restraint from a famously chaotic leader.

From Slate • Apr. 3, 2026

Their restraint appears to be one of the Iran war’s casualties.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 27, 2026

The World Health Organisation said that the conflict was at a "perilous stage" and called for restraint.

From BBC • Mar. 24, 2026

“As we’ve expressed previously, the very reason for our optimism about a cessation of hostilities is that it would not require a comprehensive peace agreement — with mutual restraint instead being sufficient,” Bishop said.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 23, 2026

What is pertinent is the calmness of that beauty, its sense of restraint.

From "The Remains of the Day" by Kazuo Ishiguro

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.