Restrictor Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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restrictor

[rɪˈstrɪktər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

mechanical

A device or substance that limits or controls something, such as the flow of a fluid, gas, or sound.

Synonyms

controller, limiter, regulator.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
restrictor	Frequently used in mechanical systems to describe a device that controls the flow or pressure within the system. We installed a restrictor to control the water pressure. The vacuum restrictor helps manage airflow within the device.
limiter	Mainly used in technical or electronic fields to describe a device that imposes limits, especially in audio engineering to prevent signals from exceeding a certain level. The audio limiter prevents distortion by capping the maximum volume. A power limiter ensures the machinery doesn't draw too much electricity.
regulator	Used in contexts involving the control and management of processes, often in industries like healthcare, finance, and utilities. The gas regulator ensures a steady flow to the stove. Financial regulators monitor the activities of banks.
controller	Typically used in broader contexts including electronics, business, and software, to refer to a device or person that manages or governs operations. The game controller needs new batteries. The financial controller is responsible for managing the company's budget.

Examples of usage

The restrictor in the pipe helps regulate the water flow.
This restrictor plate is used to limit the air intake in the engine.
The restrictor on the exhaust system reduces noise levels.
The restrictor valve controls the flow of gas in the system.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

informal

A person or thing that limits or restricts someone or something.

Synonyms

constrainer, inhibitor, restrainer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
restrictor	A device or mechanism that limits the flow of a liquid, air, or other substances. Often used in engineering or mechanical settings. The restrictor valve ensures that the flow of fuel to the engine remains consistent
constrainer	Used to describe something that limits, confines, or restricts movements, actions, or emotions. It can be used in both physical and metaphorical contexts. The tight schedule acted as a constrainer on their ability to innovate
restrainer	Something or someone that holds back or controls actions and behaviors, often used in contexts involving physical restrained and control. The police used a restrainer to control the aggressive suspect
inhibitor	A chemical, substance, or factor that slows down or prevents a particular process or reaction. Often used in scientific, medical, and technical contexts. The doctor prescribed an enzyme inhibitor to slow the progression of the disease

Examples of usage

He always acts as a restrictor to my creativity.
Don't let fear be a restrictor in achieving your goals.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Engineering

In vehicles, a restrictor can limit the amount of air or fuel, helping engines run more efficiently.
Many water systems use restrictors to control water flow, especially in irrigation, to conserve resources.

Health

In medical devices, restrictors might be used to control how fast medication is delivered to a patient.
Respiratory restrictors help manage the flow of air to ensure proper inhalation in patients with breathing difficulties.

Environmental Science

Restrictors can limit pollutants in wastewater treatment plants, helping to protect natural water bodies.
These devices are often used in ecological restoration projects to control the flow of water and prevent flooding.

Pop Culture

In movies, a ‘restrictor’ character might be someone who prevents others from achieving their goals, like a villain who sets up challenges.
The term has been humorously used in cartoons to describe overbearing adults who stop kids from having fun.

Technology

In computer networking, restrictors can limit access to certain data or websites, keeping users safe from harmful content.
Smart home devices may use restrictors to manage energy consumption, helping to save electricity by limiting usage at peak times.

Origin of 'restrictor'

The word 'restrictor' originated from the verb 'restrict', which comes from the Latin word 'restrictus', meaning 'confined'. The concept of restriction has been present in various fields throughout history, from mechanical engineering to psychology. The term has evolved to encompass both physical devices and abstract limitations.