Re*strain" (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Restrained (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Restraining.] [OE. restreinen, F. restreindre, fr. L. restringere, restrictum; pref. re- re- + stringere to draw, bind, or press together. See Strain, v. t., and cf. Restrict.]

1.

To draw back again; to hold back from acting, proceeding, or advancing, either by physical or moral force, or by any interposing obstacle; to repress or suppress; to keep down; to curb.

Restrain in me the cursed thoughts that nature Gives way to in repose! Shak.

2.

To draw back toghtly, as a rein.

[Obs.]

Shak.

3.

To hinder from unlimited enjoiment; to abridge.

Though they two were committed, at least restrained of their liberty. Clarendon.

4.

To limit; to confine; to restrict.

Trench.

Not only a metaphysical or natural, but a moral, universality also is to be restrained by a part of the predicate. I. Watts.

5.

To withhold; to forbear.

Thou restrained prayer before God. Job. xv. 4.

Syn. -- To check; hinder; stop; withhold; repress; curb; suppress; coerce; restrict; limit; confine.

 

© Webster 1913.

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