Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for restraint. Search instead for gestrahlt.
Definitions

restraint

[ri-streynt] / rɪˈstreɪnt /
NOUN
self-control
Synonyms
STRONGEST
caution constraint control moderation restriction self-discipline self-restraint
STRONG
abstemiousness abstinence coercion command compulsion confines coolness curtailment economy forbearance grip hindrance hold inhibition limitation prevention repression reserve secretiveness self-denial self-government self-possession silence suppression unnaturalness withholding
Antonyms
STRONG
aid assistance freedom help indulgence liberty release self-indulgence
WEAK
agitation arousal liberation wildness
NOUN
limitation; something that holds
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 straitjacket 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.

Rather than layering targeted surcharges atop a punitive system, city and state leaders should pursue spending restraint.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 18, 2026

Regulators, meanwhile, relaxed last year a restraint on the largest banks’ use of leverage, which in particular helps trading activities that involve warehousing lower-risk assets such as Treasurys.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

I was able to practice restraint in the song while also still being interesting.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 2026

It said nuclear power plant sites and nearby areas "must never be attacked" and called for "maximum military restraint" to avoid a nuclear accident.

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

In fact, I’m a model patient, my lethargy taken for restraint, obedience to the doctors’ orders.

From "Mockingjay" by Suzanne Collins

Vocabulary lists containing restraint

Theodore Roosevelt on "New Nationalism" (1910)

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Excerpts from "Jacobson v. Massachusetts"

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Talk Like Shakespeare Day, List 4

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!