straitjacket

[streyt-jak-it] / ˈstreɪtˌdʒæk ɪt /

NOUN

restraint

Synonyms

STRONGEST

ban constraint curb embargo limit prohibition reduction restriction

STRONG

abridgment arrest bar barrier bondage bridle captivity chains check command confinement cramp decrease deprivation detention determent deterrence fetters hindrance impediment imprisonment instruction interdict manacles obstacle obstruction order pinions rein repression rope stop stoppage string taboo weight

Antonyms

STRONGEST

allowance enlargement permission

STRONG

advantage aid assistance beginning continuation encouragement expansion freedom go help independence indulgence liberation liberty license promotion release start support

WEAK

agitation arousal wildness

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

For all its aspiration of freedom, it is a straitjacket that cannot be removed.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

It makes the whole project less overwhelming — more a compass than a straitjacket.

From Salon • Sep. 9, 2025

We all know what it’s like to feel that straitjacket of opinions about what’s gonna make a hit record.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 16, 2024

In dressing rooms, a size-XS shirt would go over my head instead of entrapping me like a straitjacket.

From Slate • Jul. 20, 2024

I looked over at the next desk and saw a girl sitting there, also wearing a straitjacket.

From "The Lightning Thief" by Rick Riordan