restrict

[ri-strikt] / rɪˈstrɪkt /

VERB

confine, limit situation or ability to participate

Synonyms

STRONGEST

curb decrease define diminish hamper impede inhibit limit narrow reduce regulate restrain shorten

STRONG

bind bound chain check circumscribe constrict contain contract cramp delimit delimitate demarcate encircle enclose inclose moderate modify qualify shrink surround temper tether tie

WEAK

bottle up come down on cool down demark hang up hem in hold back hold down keep within bounds keep within limits pin down prelimit put away put on ice send up shut in

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aid allow assist develop encourage enlarge expand extend free grow help increase lengthen raise

STRONG

let go liberate loose loosen open permit release stretch unbind unfasten unloose untie

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.

On May 18, he rescinded the gag rule External link, promising the SEC would stop using its “institutional power” to restrict free speech.

From Barron's • Jun. 3, 2026

If they did, their brokerage would label them as a “pattern day trader” and restrict them from placing any more trades for weeks or months.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 3, 2026

These overnight strikes saw Pulkovo airport temporarily restrict flights, according to Russian aviation watchdog Rosaviatsia.

From BBC • Jun. 3, 2026

The state legislature joined Colorado in trying to restrict investors’ ability to influence law firms.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 2, 2026

I don’t see why I should have to restrict myself, lots of people don’t.

From "The Girl on the Train" by Paula Hawkins

Vocabulary lists containing restrict

Tier 2 Words for the SBAC ELA Items

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"Too Young to Drive?" and "Rules of the Road"

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