restraint

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   the act of controlling by restraining someone or something

   the unlawful restraint of trade

2. 2
   noun

   a device that retards something's motion

   the car did not have proper restraints fitted

3. 3
   noun

   lack of ornamentation

   the room was simply decorated with great restraint

4. 4
   noun

   discipline in personal and social activities

   I was a model of polite restraint.

5. 5
   noun

   a rule or condition that limits freedom

   legal restraints

6. 6
   noun

   the state of being physically constrained

   dogs should be kept under restraint

7. 7
   noun

   something that restrains, ties, fastens or secures

   Make sure all the restraints are tight.

8. 8
   noun

   control or caution; reserve

   Try to exercise restraint when talking to your boss.

Etymology

From Middle English restreynte, from Old French restreinte; more at restrain.