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On May 18, he rescinded the gag rule External link, promising the SEC would stop using its “institutional power” to restrict free speech.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

Meta denied trying to "silence" Wynn-Williams or restrict her freedom of speech, adding an interim order prohibited her from book promotion.

From BBC • Jun. 1, 2026

Some districts restrict phones all day while others allow students to have them during passing periods and lunch.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 30, 2026

Guest: Rep. Emma Greenman, a member of the Minnesota House of Representatives who authored legislation to restrict prediction markets in the state.

From Slate • May 28, 2026

While Islam doesn’t restrict women from exercising—in fact all Muslims are required to care for their bodies through exercise and healthy eating habits—women face a unique set of challenges with sports.

From "Proud" by Ibtihaj Muhammad

Vocabulary lists containing restrict

Tier 2 Words for the SBAC ELA Items

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List 9

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

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