Restrain

/rɪˈstreɪn/

Meaning & Definition

verb

to hold back or limit something; to prevent someone from doing something.

The teacher had to restrain the students from running in the hall.

to control or suppress one's emotions, impulses, or actions.

She tried to restrain her anger during the meeting.

to use physical force to stop someone from moving.

The police had to restrain the suspect to prevent him from escaping.

to limit or restrict something's extent or quantity.

The new laws aim to restrain pollution in the city.

Middle English restrainen, from Latin restriāre, from re- + stringere to tighten.

restrain oneself

to control one's impulses or desires.

restrain from

to avoid doing something.

to restrain a person

to physically prevent someone from moving freely.

repression

the action of suppressing a thought or desire.

hold back your feelings

Don't restrain your feelings; let them out.

keep a lid on it

You gotta keep a lid on your excitement until the party starts.