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Showing results for restraint. Search instead for restraints/8.
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

Pakistan is one of China's closest partners in the region and Beijing has called for "calm and restraint" in Islamabad's conflict with Afghanistan.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

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

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 27, 2026

The SPS believes it is the first prison service in the world to introduce pain-free restraint across its jails.

From BBC • Mar. 23, 2026

“The borrowers will always be willing to take a great deal for themselves. It’s up to the lenders to show restraint, and when they lose it, watch out.”

From "The Big Short" by Michael Lewis

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