confine

[kuhn-fahyn, kon-fahyn] / kənˈfaɪn, ˈkɒn faɪn /

VERB

enclose, limit

Synonyms

STRONGEST

constrain detain hinder imprison incarcerate jail restrain restrict

STRONG

bar bind bound cage circumscribe cool cramp delimit enslave fix hog-tie ice immure intern keep repress shorten

WEAK

cool down hem in hold back put a lid on put away put on ice send up shut up

Antonyms

STRONGEST

free let go liberate release

STRONG

allow ignore increase loose loosen neglect open permit unbind unfasten

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.

The US has not addressed this directly but said it had "worked to operate the refugee program within the confines of the law".

From BBC

Twelve pro wins and one loss later, there is no question that Paul is more comfortable in the confines of the ring.

From The Wall Street Journal

"I avoid confined spaces and lifts. And yes, I did see a psychologist."

From Barron's

Colorectal cancer is no longer confined to older populations.

From Science Daily

All three have come from outwith the traditional confines of the sport they now run.

From BBC