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restrict

verb
re·​strict | \ ri-ˈstrikt How to pronounce restrict (audio) \
restricted; restricting; restricts

Definition of restrict

transitive verb

1 : to confine within bounds : restrain
2 : to place under restrictions as to use or distribution
Synonyms & Antonyms Choose the Right Synonym Example Sentences Learn More about restrict

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Synonyms & Antonyms for restrict

Synonyms

cap, circumscribe, confine, hold down, limit

Antonyms

exceed

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Choose the Right Synonym for restrict

limit, restrict, circumscribe, confine mean to set bounds for. limit implies setting a point or line (as in time, space, speed, or degree) beyond which something cannot or is not permitted to go. visits are limited to 30 minutes restrict suggests a narrowing or tightening or restraining within or as if within an encircling boundary. laws intended to restrict the freedom of the press circumscribe stresses a restriction on all sides and by clearly defined boundaries. the work of the investigating committee was carefully circumscribed confine suggests severe restraint and a resulting cramping, fettering, or hampering. our choices were confined by finances

Examples of restrict in a Sentence

Her eye problem restricts her reading. She was told to restrict the amount of salt she uses. The new law restricts smoking in public places. They have accused the government of trying to restrict free speech. They say the government is trying to restrict them from speaking out.
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Recent Examples on the Web

 This restricted the iPhone maker from setting up its manufacturing ecosystem in India, both for domestic sales and exports. — Niharika Sharma, Quartz India, "Who gains from India’s new foreign investment norms?," 29 Aug. 2019 Even so, the development of paideia was not restricted to Athens, and formed part of a pan-Greek culture. — Raquel López, National Geographic, "Did sons and daughters get the same education in ancient Greece?," 28 Aug. 2019 The order stipulates no animal may move in or out of the property and restricts movement of carcasses, according to DATCP. — Paul A. Smith, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Smith: An elk that died on a farm in Burnett County had CWD, so a feeding and baiting ban is imminent," 28 Aug. 2019 Some parishes of Louisiana restrict Thanksgiving Day sales. — Rebekah Lowin, Country Living, "Are Liquor Stores Open on Thanksgiving? Here's What to Know," 16 Aug. 2019 Given the feminist undertones of Marshmallow—their first pieces were designed to embrace, not restrict, a woman’s curves—their entry into the bridal world may feel surprising. — Vogue, "These Designers Are Shaking Up the Outdated Traditions of Bridesmaid Dresses," 8 Aug. 2019 But fear not: This guide will show you what to serve for every course and which wines to pair with what—because matching yummy food with a gorgeous red or white doesn't have to be restricted to restaurant dining. — Sara Mae Albert, Harper's BAZAAR, "How to Plan a Casual Chic Dinner Party," 2 Aug. 2019 The decision to restrict gun sales cost Dick’s Sporting Goods $150 million. — Elizabeth Schmidt, The Conversation, "Investors, consumers and workers are changing capitalism for the better by demanding companies behave more responsibly," 24 July 2019 Another provision was aimed at restricting abortions if the patient’s decision to end the pregnancy was based on the diagnosis that the fetus has Down Syndrome. — Breanna Edwards, Essence, "Federal Judge Blocks Arkansas' New Abortion Laws," 24 July 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'restrict.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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First Known Use of restrict

1535, in the meaning defined at sense 1

History and Etymology for restrict

Latin restrictus, past participle of restringere

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More Definitions for restrict

restrict

verb
How to pronounce restrict (audio)

English Language Learners Definition of restrict

: to limit the amount or range of (something)
: to prevent (someone) from doing something
: to allow (someone) to only have or do a particular thing

See the full definition for restrict in the English Language Learners Dictionary

restrict

verb
re·​strict | \ ri-ˈstrikt How to pronounce restrict (audio) \
restricted; restricting

Kids Definition of restrict

: to keep within bounds : set limits to

restrict

transitive verb
re·​strict

Legal Definition of restrict

1 : to subject to bounds or limits restrict the height of buildings restrict visitation rights
2 : to place under restrictions as to use or distribution restricted the land to recreational use

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More from Merriam-Webster on restrict

Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with restrict

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for restrict

Spanish Central: Translation of restrict

Nglish: Translation of restrict for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of restrict for Arabic Speakers

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