|
|
- pronunciation:
- k
 n
streIn
- features:
- Word Combinations (verb), Word Parts
| part of speech: |
transitive verb |
| inflections: |
constrains, constraining, constrained |
| definition 1: |
to cause by physical, moral, or other compulsion; compel; oblige.
His sense of duty constrained him to speak out.- synonyms:
- compel, impel, oblige
- similar words:
- bind, coerce, force, obligate, pressure, require
|
| definition 2: |
to keep within tight restrictions; confine.
The tight jacket constrained her movements.He thought that doing commercial art would constrain his creativity.
- synonyms:
- confine, curb, limit, restrict
- similar words:
- bind, enclose, leash, pinch
|
| definition 3: |
to hold back; restrain.
The guards constrained the defiant prisoner.Modesty constrains him from boasting of his latest accomplishments.- synonyms:
- inhibit, restrain
- similar words:
- bind, encumber, repress, stifle
|
| related words: |
bridle, circumscribe, control, determine, exact, hold, make, muzzle, narrow, persuade, pin down, restrain, stay, stem, stop, task, tie |
|
|
|
|
| derivations: |
constrainable (adj.), constrainingly (adv.), constrainer (n.) |
|
|