constraint
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About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.con·straint
noun \kən-ˈstrānt\Definition of CONSTRAINT
1
a : the act of constraining b : the state of being checked, restricted, or compelled to avoid or perform some action <the constraint and monotony of a monastic life — Matthew Arnold> c : a constraining condition, agency, or force : check <put legal constraints on the board's activities>
2
a : repression of one's own feelings, behavior, or actions b : a sense of being constrained : embarrassment
See Examples of CONSTRAINT
- Lack of funding has been a major constraint on the building's design.
- They demand freedom from constraint.
- They refuse to work under constraint any longer.
Origin of CONSTRAINT
Middle English, from Middle French constrainte, from constraindre
First Known Use: 15th century
Related to CONSTRAINT
- Synonyms
- continence, discipline, discretion, inhibition, refrainment, repression, reserve, restraint, self-command, self-control, self-restraint, suppression
- Antonyms
- disinhibition, incontinence, unconstraint
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