Meaning of Word
Restraint refers to the act of holding back, limiting, or controlling oneself or others, either physically, emotionally, or legally. It emphasizes self-discipline, suppression, or restriction.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- Noun: The act of preventing someone or something from moving freely or acting.
- Noun: Self-control or moderation in one’s actions, words, or feelings.
- Noun: A measure or condition that restricts someone’s freedom or actions.
- Noun: A device or mechanism used to limit movement, such as a safety belt.
- Noun: Legal measures that restrict or control activities or practices.
History and Origin
The word “restraint” originates from the Latin term restringere, meaning “to bind back” or “restrain.” It entered Middle English via Old French as restreindre, later evolving into its current form. Historically, it referred to both physical restrictions and the practice of exercising self-control.
Detailed Explanation
“Restraint” encompasses physical, emotional, and legal contexts. Physically, it refers to tools or methods used to limit movement or actions, such as handcuffs or seatbelts. Emotionally, it denotes self-discipline, where individuals exercise control over impulses or reactions. Legally, restraints are measures or regulations that limit freedom to ensure order or safety. Restraint is often seen as a positive quality, emphasizing balance, control, and safety, though excessive restraint can have negative implications.
Example Sentences
- The police used restraints to secure the suspect.
- She showed remarkable restraint by staying calm during the argument.
- Budgetary restraints limited the scope of the project.
- The child was kept safe in the car with proper seatbelt restraints.
- The government imposed restraints on exports to stabilize the economy.
- His restraint from overeating helped him maintain a healthy weight.
- Emotional restraint is often necessary in professional settings.
- The new law puts strict restraints on environmental pollution.
- The animal trainer used soft restraints to ensure the dog’s safety.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Control: The act of managing or regulating behavior or actions.
- Moderation: Avoidance of extremes; exercising self-control.
- Suppression: Holding back or limiting expression or actions.
- Restriction: A rule or condition that limits freedom or movement.
- Inhibition: A psychological restraint on behavior or actions.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Restrain: To physically or emotionally hold back or limit.
- Constraint: A limitation or restriction, often externally imposed.
- Deterrent: Something that discourages or restrains from taking action.
- Temperance: Self-restraint in moderation, especially in habits.
- Prohibition: A formal restriction or ban on certain actions.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Self-restraint: Voluntary control over one’s impulses or actions.
- Physical Restraint: Tools or methods to limit movement, like handcuffs.
- Legal Restraint: Restrictions imposed by law or regulation.
- Emotional Restraint: Control over expressing feelings or emotions.
- Safety Restraint: Devices like seat belts used for protection.
Antonyms
- Freedom: The state of being unrestricted or free from control.
- Liberty: The ability to act without restraint or limitation.
- Indulgence: Allowing oneself to act without self-control.
- Release: The act of setting free from physical or emotional restraint.
- Unrestraint: A lack of control or restriction in actions or behavior.
