from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Restrain \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.
[1913 Webster]
Restrain in me the cursed thoughts that nature
Gives way to in repose! --Shak.
[1913 Webster]
2. To draw back toghtly, as a rein. [Obs.] --Shak.
[1913 Webster]
3. To hinder from unlimited enjoiment; to abridge.
[1913 Webster]
Though they two were committed, at least restrained
of their liberty. --Clarendon.
[1913 Webster]
4. To limit; to confine; to restrict. --Trench.
[1913 Webster]
Not only a metaphysical or natural, but a moral,
universality also is to be restrained by a part of
the predicate. --I. Watts.
[1913 Webster]
5. To withhold; to forbear.
[1913 Webster]
Thou restrained prayer before God. --Job. xv. 4.
[1913 Webster]
Syn: To check; hinder; stop; withhold; repress; curb;
suppress; coerce; restrict; limit; confine.
[1913 Webster]