restrict

verb

re·​strict ri-ˈstrikt 

restricted; restricting; restricts

transitive verb

1

: to confine within bounds : restrain

2

: to place under restrictions as to use or distribution

Synonyms

• cap
• circumscribe
• confine
• hold down
• limit

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.

Recent Examples on the Web

When left untreated, this condition can lead to rare but potentially life-threatening complications, like cellulitis (a skin infection that can get into your bloodstream) and cavernous sinus thrombosis (a clot that restricts blood flow to your brain), Dr. Shokeen explains. —Jenna Ryu, SELF, 1 Nov. 2024

And Melissa Holly Mahoney at the Institute for Women’s Policy research just published a major study on the economics consequences of restricting access to family planning resources. —Teresa Ghilarducci, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024

Tougher enforcement by Mexico and Panama, and Biden’s order restricting access to asylum, had pushed the numbers down. —Ignacio Calderon, USA TODAY, 1 Nov. 2024

Content that falls in a gray area — like weight loss tips, body checking, and using medication or supplements for weight loss — is restricted to viewers who are 18 years and older, and in some cases, can be ineligible for the for-you page. —Ct Jones, Rolling Stone, 1 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Latin restrictus, past participle of restringere

First Known Use

1535, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

restrict

verb

re·​strict ri-ˈstrikt 

1

: to keep within bounds

2

: to place under limits as to use

Legal Definition

restrict

transitive verb

re·​strict

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