Restraint

Definition

Restraint refers to the action or means of holding something back, limiting, or confining, as well as the condition of being restrained.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /rɪˈstreɪnt/
• Respelling: ri-STRAYNT (with "ri" as in "rid," and "STRAYNT" as in "paint")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /rɪˈstreɪnt/
• Respelling: ri-STRAYNT (similar to American English, with "ri" as in "rid," and "STRAYNT" as in "paint")

In both dialects, "restraint" is pronounced with the stress on the second syllable, "STRAYNT." The pronunciation is consistent across both American and British English, making the word straightforward to recognize and pronounce.

Etymology

The word "restraint" has its roots in the Middle English word restraint(e), which is derived from the Old French restrainte. This, in turn, originates from restraindre, which is from the Latin verb restringere meaning 'to bind back or withhold'.

Derivatives

• Restrainer
• Restrained
• Restraining
• Unrestrained
• Self-restraint

Synonyms

• Confinement
• Control
• Inhibition

Antonyms

• Freedom
• Liberation
• Release

Usage

Restraint is commonly used in legal, social, and personal contexts to describe limitations or controls on behavior, emotion, or actions. It may also refer to physical devices or measures used to restrict movement or access.

Related Terms

• Restrict
• Constrain
• Inhibit

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Control: The action or means of holding something back, limiting, or confining.‍
• Example: The law imposes some restraints on the powers of the president.

• Condition: The condition of being restrained, especially a condition of loss of freedom.‍
• Example: He was under restraint for disruptive behavior.

• Device: A device that restricts movement, such as a seatbelt or handcuff.‍
• Example: The patient was placed in restraints to prevent injury.

• Self-discipline: Control over one's emotions, desires, or actions.‍
• Example: She showed remarkable restraint in handling the provocations.