passive restraint

[ pas-iv ri-streynt ]

noun

1. a safety device in a motor vehicle, as an airbag or special seat belt, that is activated automatically to protect the seat occupant at the moment of impact when a collision occurs.

Word History and Origins

Origin of passive restraint¹

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

Automakers were also cheered last week when the Administration took another deregulatory step that they have urged, and scrapped the requirement that 1983-model cars come equipped with either automatic seat belts or so-called passive restraint airbags that inflate upon impact and protect passengers in crashes.

From Time Magazine Archive

Secretary of Transportation Brock Adams ordered automakers to begin installing air bags or other "passive restraint" safety devices on big cars by the 1982 model-year and on all cars by 1984.

From Time Magazine Archive

To protect people more effectively, the Department of Transportation has ordered that all 1974 model cars be equipped with some kind of passive restraint, which in effect means "air bags": huge porous plastic bags that must pop out like balloons between motorist and instrument panel.

From Time Magazine Archive

Department of Transportation ruled that air bags, or some form of passive restraint system, would be required safety equipment on all new cars sold in the U.S. by 1990.

From Time Magazine Archive

By subduing her and subjecting her to passive restraint he would preserve, even enhance, his own power and dignity, while at the same time obtaining a reflected pleasure from what he imagined she was feeling.

From Project Gutenberg