constraint

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C1 — Advanced

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun the state of being physically constrained
  2. noun a device that retards something's motion
  3. noun the act of constraining; the threat or use of force to control the thoughts or behavior of others

Etymology

From Middle English constreynt, constreynte, from Old French constreinte, past participle of constreindre (“to constrain”), from Latin cōnstringō (corresponding to the past participle cōnstrictus).

In classic literature

Synonyms

restraint

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