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

Trump has specifically said he would not support a national abortion ban “under any circumstances,” but that leaves open a multitude of ways he could achieve that goal by another name, whether by applying an ancient federal law to constrain the shipment of abortion pills, installing reproductive rights opponents at federal healthcare agencies as he did in his first term, or some other means.

From Los Angeles Times

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

From BBC

But she said resources and volunteer expertise can constrain some efforts.

From Los Angeles Times

Instead, the evidence suggests, natural disasters constrain the housing supply, leading to increased demand and higher prices for both buyers and renters.

From Slate

Those are a minority, but the Democratic voices calling to constrain Israel somehow are growing significantly.

From BBC

Related Words

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