restraint

noun

USri-STRAYNT/ɹɪˈstɹeɪnt/

Pluralrestraints (some meanings)

2 meanings of restraint

1
noununcountable
Calm self-control that stops you from doing or saying too much.
Like keeping your hand off the last cookie even when you really want it.
She showed great restraint when the angry customer started yelling.
He ate with restraint, even though the food smelled wonderful.
Similarself-control, composure, moderation, discipline, reserve
Oppositeabandon, excess, indulgence
2
nouncountable
Something used to hold a person or thing in place so it cannot move freely.
Like a seatbelt that keeps you from sliding around in the car.
The child's car seat has a safety restraint that holds her snugly.
Doctors loosened the restraints once the patient had calmed down.
Similarstrap, tether, harness

Practice

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Origin

From Middle English restreynte, which came from Old French restreinte. It is related to the word restrain.