constrain

verb

con·​strain kən-ˈstrān How to pronounce constrain (audio)
constrained; constraining; constrains

transitive verb

1
a
: to force by imposed stricture, restriction, or limitation
Teenagers often feel constrained by rules.
an artist constrained by a client's requirements
b
: to restrict the motion of (a mechanical body) to a particular mode
2
: compress
also : to clasp tightly
3
: to secure by or as if by bonds : confine
constrained to a dungeon
broadly : limit
4
: to force or produce in an unnatural or strained manner
a constrained smile
5
: to hold back by or as if by force
" … constraining my mind not to wander from the task."Charles Dickens
constrainedly
kən-ˈstrā-nəd-lē How to pronounce constrain (audio)
-ˈstrānd-lē
adverb
Choose the Right Synonym for constrain

force, compel, coerce, constrain, oblige mean to make someone or something yield.

force is the general term and implies the overcoming of resistance by the exertion of strength, power, or duress.

forced to flee for their lives

compel typically suggests overcoming of resistance or unwillingness by an irresistible force.

compelled to admit my mistake

coerce suggests overcoming resistance or unwillingness by actual or threatened violence or pressure.

coerced into signing over the rights

constrain suggests the effect of a force or circumstance that limits freedom of action or choice.

constrained by conscience

oblige implies the constraint of necessity, law, or duty.

felt obliged to go

Examples of constrain in a Sentence

constrained by conscience to tell only the truth constrained his anger at the needless interruption
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
These conditions are often seen when buyers are constrained (e.g., by high mortgage rates or economic uncertainty), or homebuilders have ramped up production in anticipation of higher demand that didn’t fully materialize. Ashley Lutz, Fortune, 25 July 2025 However, Lagarde again stressed that the ECB is monitoring a flip-side scenario in which fragmented supply chains constrain the domestic economy and push up prices worldwide. Jenni Reid, CNBC, 24 July 2025 Nothing quite sums up the contrasting nature of the current era at Newcastle; fiercely ambitious, yet tightly constrained. Harry De Cosemo, Forbes.com, 24 July 2025 He’s had many years to change and never has, which means that every remaining institution should understand that constraining him is existential. New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 20 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for constrain

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French constraindre, from Latin constringere to constrict, constrain, from com- + stringere to draw tight — more at strain

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of constrain was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Constrain.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/constrain. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

constrain

verb
con·​strain kən-ˈstrān How to pronounce constrain (audio)

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