Definitions

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.

Last week, the Scottish government urged schools to act before it introduced new legislation to restrict phone use in classrooms.

From BBC • Jun. 9, 2026

In 2017, in response to North Korea’s nuclear advancement, the U.S. and United Nations tightened economic sanctions on the nation with sweeping resolutions to restrict trade and financial transactions.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 8, 2026

The US State Department announced Monday that it will restrict visa access for over 100 Nicaraguan officials and their family members following the death of a detained Indigenous leader.

From Barron's • Jun. 8, 2026

Higher intakes are sometimes needed during illness, frailty or recovery, unless someone has been advised to restrict protein because of kidney disease or another condition.

From Science Daily • Jun. 6, 2026

He began to restrict his riding to top horses assigned high imposts.

From "Seabiscuit: An American Legend" by Laura Hillenbrand

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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