Synonyms

restrict

American

[ri-strikt] / rɪˈstrɪkt /

verb (used with object)

to confine or keep within limits, as of space, action, choice, intensity, or quantity.

Synonyms:

obstruct, impede, hinder, hamper, block, check, abridge, restrain, limit, confine, circumscribe

Antonyms:

surpass, exceed

restrict British

/ rɪˈstrɪkt /

verb

(often foll by to) to confine or keep within certain often specified limits or selected bounds

to restrict one's drinking to the evening

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

derestrict verb (used with object)
nonrestricting adjective
overrestrict verb (used with object)
prerestrict verb (used with object)
restricter noun
restrictor noun

Etymology

Origin of restrict

First recorded in 1525–35; from Latin restrictus “drawn back, tightened, bound, reserved,” adjective use of past participle of restringere “to bind back, bind fast”; restrain

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Pakistan needed to restrict Sri Lanka to 147 runs or fewer in their reply to ensure their net run-rate was better than New Zealand's in Group 2.

From BBC

“Air units will be restricted from responding to requests for service in the affected areas,” wrote Larsen, the acting commanding officer of Air Support Division.

From Los Angeles Times

Older trusts, such as A/B trusts, often contain rigid language that restricts control for surviving spouses, a limitation no longer justified by tax benefits.

From Barron's

"We will not be looking to universally restrict the importation and registration of used vehicles," he said.

From BBC

Except in very restricted circumstances, slurry spreading is forbidden in Northern Ireland from 15 October to the following 31 January.

From BBC

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023