restraint

The word “restraint” means a device or measure that holds something back or keeps it secure. In plain terms, either a physical thing that holds someone back, or the personal discipline of not overreacting.

“Restraint” is pronounced rih-STRAYNT (/ɹɪˈstɹeɪnt/ in IPA).

Here is “restraint” used in a sentence: “The child seat has a five-point restraint to keep the toddler safe.”

“Restraint” is a noun.

The word “restraint” comes from Old French. From Old French restreinte, tied to the verb restrain — "to draw back tightly.".

“Restraint” is an uncommon word in modern English.

“Restraint” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a device or measure that holds something back or keeps it secure.

Restraint and self-control are closely related, both referring to holding back from acting on every impulse, but restraint can also describe a physical device or measure that holds something back, such as a car's seat restraint. Self-control refers specifically to an internal, personal quality rather than a physical object.

Restraint often refers to a deliberate act of holding back or a device that secures something, frequently with a positive or protective connotation, while restriction refers to a limit or rule placed on freedom or action, often imposed externally. Showing restraint is usually a choice, while facing a restriction is usually imposed by someone or something else.

In a physical sense, restraint refers to a device or measure that holds something back or keeps it secure, such as a safety restraint in a vehicle. In a behavioral sense, restraint refers to self-control, such as showing restraint by not reacting angrily to provocation.