Synonyms for

Restraining

Verb / ri:ˈstreɪnɪŋ / Another word for restraining — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The act of holding back or controlling someone or something.

Synonyms & similar words

keep trammel limit encumber intimidate hold restrain holdback confine cumber keepback bound throttle restrict constrain controlling constraining limiting suppressing curbing confining restricting hindering checking repressing gagging muffling silencing muzzling stifling smothering

Synonyms by register

Formal

inhibiting curbing suppressing controlling

Informal

holding back keeping in check keeping down

Literary

enchaining manacling

Antonyms

freeing releasing unbinding unfettering liberating loosening permitting

Common collocations

  • restraining order
  • restraining force
  • restraining hand
  • restraining influence
  • restraining the urge
  • restraining the population
  • restraining the spread

Word family

noun restraint
verb restrain
adjective restrained
adverb restrainedly

Usage note

Often used in legal contexts, such as 'restraining order'. Can imply physical or psychological control.

Example sentences

  1. The teacher was restraining the children from running in the hallway.
  2. The dog had to wear a muzzle to restrain it from biting.
  3. The doctor used a restraining order to keep the patient from leaving the hospital.
  4. The coach had to restrain the players from fighting during the game.
  5. The parent used a baby gate to restrain the toddler from going up the stairs.

Quotes

  • The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.
  • Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.
  • Believe in yourself and all that you are. Know that there is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle.

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