constrain

[ kuhn-streyn ]

verb (used with object)

1. to force, compel, or oblige:

   He was constrained to admit the offense.

   Synonyms: coerce

2. to confine forcibly, as by bonds.

   Synonyms: bind, check

   Antonyms: free

3. to repress or restrain:

   Cold weather constrained the plant's growth.

constrain

/ kənˈstreɪn /

verb

1. to compel or force, esp by persuasion, circumstances, etc; oblige
2. to restrain by or as if by force; confine

Derived Forms

• conˈstrainer, noun

Other Words From

• con·straina·ble adjective
• con·strainer noun
• con·straining·ly adverb
• noncon·straining adjective
• uncon·straina·ble adjective
• uncon·straining adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of constrain¹

1275–1325; Middle English constrei ( g ) nen < Anglo-French, Middle French constrei ( g ) n- (stem of constreindre ) < Latin constringere. See con-, strain ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of constrain¹

C14: from Old French constreindre, from Latin constringere to bind together, from stringere to bind

Example Sentences

These systems are not constrained by ambient humidity but come with a separate set of challenges they hope to solve with further research.

From Science Daily

If the force of Wise’s version was constrained by the technology, it provided the blueprint for a plethora of face-melting heavy metal covers.

From New York Times

Over the course of the first quarter of this century, the American presidency has accumulated ever more power, rendering the office increasingly less constrained by either Congress or the courts.

From Salon

Speaking to reporters, Taiwan's National Security Bureau Director-General Tsai Ming-yen said: "On relations across the Taiwan Strait, we believe that the US will continue its current approach of constraining China and being friendly to Taiwan."

From BBC

For many people here, good allies never pressure, criticise or constrain.

From BBC

Related Words

• bind
• constrict
• curb
• hold down
• inhibit
• necessitate
• stifle