Vocabulary word Restrain - Practice with online flashcards, spelling bees and vocabulary quizzes

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Dictionary Definition of restrain

To limit, control, or hold back someone or something from taking a particular action or exhibiting certain behavior.
"The police officer used handcuffs to restrain the suspect."

Detailed Meaning of Restrain

It involves exerting physical or mental force to prevent movement, activity, or expression beyond a certain limit or boundary. Restraint can be applied in various contexts, such as in personal relationships, legal situations, or the management of emotions. It implies the use of measures or techniques to confine, restrict, or moderate the actions, impulses, or freedoms of an individual or object. Restraint can be voluntary, such as self-restraint, or enforced through external means, like handcuffs or laws, to ensure compliance, maintain order, or safeguard the well-being of individuals or society.

Example Sentences for Restrain

1. They restrain their emotions in public.
2. The police restrain unruly protesters.
3. He tries to restrain his anger.
4. The coach instructs the players to restrain their aggression.
5. The bouncer uses physical force to restrain the troublemaker.
6. She tries to restrain herself from saying something hurtful.

Origin and Etymology of Restrain

The verb 'restrain' has its etymological roots in the Old French word 'restreindre,' which in turn comes from the Latin 'restringere.' 'Restrictus' is the past participle of 'restringere,' and it's composed of 're,' meaning 'back' or 'again,' and 'stringere,' meaning 'to bind' or 'to tie.' Therefore, the etymology of 'restrain' conveys the idea of binding or tying something back, implying the act of limiting, controlling, or holding back someone or something from taking a particular action or exhibiting specific behavior. This etymology emphasizes the notion of imposing a form of constraint or limitation, aligning with the modern sense of the word 'restrain' as we understand it today.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the verb restrain:

control

free

liberate

release

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More Usage Examples of Restrain

1. The parents restrain their child from running into the street.
2. The doctor uses a straightjacket to restrain the violent patient.
3. The security guard has to restrain rowdy fans at the concert.
4. They restrain their laughter during the serious meeting.
5. The teacher struggles to restrain the students' enthusiasm.
6. The lifeguard must be able to restrain panicked swimmers.
7. He tries to restrain his natural instincts.
8. The government implements policies to restrain inflation.
9. The therapist teaches techniques to restrain impulsive behavior.
10. The dog owner uses a leash to restrain the dog.
11. They try to restrain their excitement about the upcoming trip.
12. The soldier is trained to restrain their emotions in combat.
13. The judge orders the courtroom to restrain their emotions during the trial.
14. The company implements strict measures to restrain unauthorized access.