Dictionary entries for 'constraint'

Synonyms

con·straint (kən-strānt́)

[Middle English constreinte, from Old French, from feminine past participle of constraindre, to constrain; see constrain.]

noun

The threat or use of force to prevent, restrict, or dictate the action or thought of others.
The state of being restricted or confined within prescribed bounds: soon tired of the constraint of military life.
One that restricts, limits, or regulates; a check: ignored all moral constraints in his pursuit of success.
Embarrassed reserve or reticence; awkwardness: “All constraint had vanished between the two, and they began to talk” (Edith Wharton)