Restrict

Definition

Restrict means to limit the extent, amount, or range of something; to confine within bounds or under control. It is most commonly used as a transitive verb.

Parts of Speech

• Verb (transitive)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA: /rɪˈstrɪkt/
• Respelling: ri-STRIKT

British English

• IPA: /rɪˈstrɪkt/
• Respelling: ri-STRIKT

Etymology

Mid 16th century: from Latin restrictus, past participle of restringere ‘to bind fast,’ from re- ‘back’ + stringere ‘to draw tight.’

Derivatives

• restriction (noun)
• restrictive (adjective)
• restrictively (adverb)
• unrestricted (adjective)
• restricts, restricting (verb forms)

Synonyms

• limit
• confine
• constrain
• curb
• bound

Antonyms

• allow
• permit
• free
• enable
• expand

Usage

"The government proposed new laws to restrict the sale of certain firearms."

"Parking is restricted to permit holders only."

Related Terms

• Limit: A point or level beyond which something does not or may not extend.
• Confine: To keep within bounds; restrict.
• Constraint: A limitation or restriction.
• Curb: To restrain or keep in check.
• Regulate: To control or maintain the rate or speed of.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To limit the range, extent, or amount of – to set boundaries or reduce the scope of something so it does not exceed specified limits.
  • Example: "New safety rules restrict access to hazardous areas."
• To confine within bounds or under control – to keep something within certain limits or restraints.
  • Example: "We had to restrict water usage during the drought."
• To place conditions on; to subject to restrictions – to impose rules or requirements that must be met.
  • Example: "The contract will restrict employees from joining competitors for two years."