Restraint: meaning, definitions and examples

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restraint

 

[rɪˈstreɪnt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

exercise of self-control

Restraint is the act of holding back or controlling oneself from doing something. It involves self-discipline and moderation in behavior.

Synonyms

discipline, moderation, self-control.

Examples of usage

  • He showed great restraint in not reacting to the provocation.
  • She practiced restraint by not eating the entire cake.
  • I admire his restraint in not spending all his money at once.
Context #2 | Noun

limitation or restriction

Restraint can also refer to a limitation or restriction placed on someone or something. It can involve rules, regulations, or constraints.

Synonyms

constraint, limitation, restriction.

Examples of usage

  • There are legal restraints on how much noise you can make after a certain hour.
  • The company placed restraints on employee spending to control costs.
Context #3 | Noun

physical device

Restraint can also be a physical device used to restrict movement or behavior, such as handcuffs or a straightjacket.

Synonyms

constraint, fetters, shackles.

Examples of usage

  • The criminal was placed in restraints before being transported to the police station.
  • The psychiatric patient was put in a restraint to prevent self-harm.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'restringere', meaning 'to tie back' or 'keep within limits'.
  • It entered the English language in the late 14th century, emphasizing the concept of holding or keeping back.
  • The prefix 're-' suggests a return to control, indicating a repeated action of restraint.

Psychology

  • Psychologists study restraint as a key element in self-control, crucial for resisting temptations.
  • Research shows that practicing restraint can lead to better decision-making and improved relationships.
  • A lack of restraint may be linked to various behavioral issues, highlighting its importance in emotional regulation.

Social Context

  • In many cultures, restraint is valued as a sign of maturity and respect towards others.
  • Certain practices, like meditation and mindfulness, promote restraint as a method for improving mental well-being.
  • Social norms often dictate when and how restraint should be practiced, such as in public settings.

Literature

  • Restraint often appears as a theme in classic literature, symbolizing moral strength and inner conflict.
  • Famous characters, like Mr. Darcy in 'Pride and Prejudice', exhibit restraint in feelings, adding depth to their personalities.
  • Poets frequently explore the tension between desire and restraint, illuminating human emotions.

Pop Culture

  • Many popular films, such as 'The Matrix', depict characters that must exercise restraint to achieve their goals.
  • Reality TV shows often highlight moments of restraint or impulsiveness, captivating audiences with the struggle.
  • Sports figures are often admired for their restraint, showing the discipline required for success.

Translations

Translations of the word "restraint" in other languages:

🇵🇹 restrição

🇮🇳 संयम

🇩🇪 Zurückhaltung

🇮🇩 pembatasan

🇺🇦 стриманість

🇵🇱 powściągliwość

🇯🇵 抑制 (よくせい)

🇫🇷 retenue

🇪🇸 moderación

🇹🇷 kısıtlama

🇰🇷 제한 (jehan)

🇸🇦 تقييد

🇨🇿 omezení

🇸🇰 obmedzenie

🇨🇳 限制 (xiànzhì)

🇸🇮 omejitev

🇮🇸 hömlur

🇰🇿 шектеу

🇬🇪 შეზღუდვა

🇦🇿 məhdudiyyət

🇲🇽 moderación

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,484 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.