constraint
kuhn-STRAYNT
Constraint (noun) means a limitation or restriction on what can be done. Example: “Budget constraints forced them to cut the project short.”
noun
1
A limitation or restriction on what can be done.
"Budget constraints forced them to cut the project short."
"Time constraints meant the team had to work through the weekend."
2
A rule in mathematics, computing, or databases that a solution or entry must satisfy.
"The database enforces a constraint requiring every email to be unique."
How to use constraint
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA limit or rule that restricts what's possible.
Common pairings
budget constraint
time constraint
under constraint
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Word forms
- Plural
- constraints
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Can you complete this real example?
Budget _____ forced them to cut the project short.
Etymology
From Old French constreinte, past participle of constreindre, "to constrain," from Latin constringere, "to bind tightly together."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for constraint
See all rhymes for constraint →Frequently asked questions
What does “constraint” mean?
The word “constraint” means a limitation or restriction on what can be done. In plain terms, a limit or rule that restricts what's possible.
How do you pronounce “constraint”?
“Constraint” is pronounced kuhn-STRAYNT (/kənˈstɹeɪnt/ in IPA).
How do you use “constraint” in a sentence?
Here is “constraint” used in a sentence: “Budget constraints forced them to cut the project short.”
What part of speech is “constraint”?
“Constraint” is a noun.
Where does the word “constraint” come from?
The word “constraint” comes from Latin. From Old French constreinte, past participle of constreindre, "to constrain," from Latin constringere, "to bind tightly together.".
Is “constraint” a common word?
“Constraint” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the C1 level.
How many meanings does “constraint” have?
“Constraint” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a limitation or restriction on what can be done.
