restraint

IPA

Dictionary definition of restraint

The act of holding back or limiting oneself from taking a particular action or behaving in a certain way.
"She showed remarkable restraint in not retaliating to his insults."

Detailed meaning of restraint

It can also refer to a physical device or method used to restrict or control movement, such as handcuffs or a straitjacket. Restraint is often associated with self-discipline, self-control, and the ability to resist temptation or impulses. It is an important quality in various aspects of life, including personal relationships, work, and decision-making. Without restraint, people may act impulsively or recklessly, leading to negative consequences for themselves and others. Conversely, excessive restraint can lead to a lack of spontaneity or creativity, which can also have negative impacts.

Example sentences of restraint

1. Exercising restraint is key in avoiding impulsive decisions.
2. Her calm demeanor showed remarkable restraint.
3. Restraint is crucial when dealing with difficult people.
4. The legal system relies on the concept of restraint.
5. Show some restraint in spending to save for the future.
6. Self-restraint can lead to better self-discipline.

History and etymology of restraint

The noun 'restraint' has its etymological origins in the Old French word 'restreinte,' which is derived from the Latin 'restringere.' In Latin, 'restringere' is composed of 're-' meaning 'back' or 'again' and 'stringere' meaning 'to bind' or 'to draw tight.' This combination gives 'restraint' its fundamental meaning of the act of holding back or limiting oneself from taking a particular action or behaving in a certain way. Over time, 'restraint' has come to encompass a wide range of contexts, from self-control and moderation to external restrictions or limitations placed on individuals or things. The etymology of 'restraint' emphasizes the idea of binding or holding back, reflecting the core concept of limiting one's actions or impulses that remains central to its meaning today.

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Further usage examples of restraint

1. The hostage situation required police restraint.
2. He displayed admirable restraint during the argument.
3. The treaty is a form of international restraint.
4. The doctor recommended dietary restraint for health.
5. Restraint in communication can prevent conflicts.
6. The artist's work reflects artistic restraint.
7. Emotional restraint can be challenging but beneficial.
8. The law enforces restraint in certain behaviors.
9. Restraint is necessary in managing financial risk.
10. She values personal restraint in all aspects of life.
11. The diplomat demonstrated diplomatic restraint.
12. Restraint is a sign of maturity and self-control.
13. Restraint in creativity can stifle innovation.
14. In times of crisis, restraint can save lives.
15. The police used restraints to control the unruly suspect.
16. The doctor suggested using a restraint to prevent the patient from injuring himself.
17. The company implemented budgetary restraints to curb unnecessary spending.
18. The artist used restraint in the color palette to create a minimalist painting.
19. The judge imposed a restraining order to protect the victim from the abuser.
20. The athlete had to show restraint in his training to avoid overexertion and injury.
21. The therapist recommended practicing restraint in emotional outbursts to improve relationships.
22. The teacher used a restraint technique to manage the disruptive student in class.
23. The pilot had to exercise restraint in flying the plane during the stormy weather.
24. The chef's restraint in using seasoning allowed the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine.
25. The conservationist advocated for restraint in exploiting natural resources to preserve the environment.