Definitions

restrict

[ri-strikt] / rɪˈstrɪkt /

VERB

confine, limit situation or ability to participate

Synonyms

STRONGEST

curb decrease define diminish hamper impede inhibit limit narrow reduce regulate restrain shorten

STRONG

bind bound chain check circumscribe constrict contain contract cramp delimit delimitate demarcate encircle enclose inclose moderate modify qualify shrink surround temper tether tie

WEAK

bottle up come down on cool down demark hang up hem in hold back hold down keep within bounds keep within limits pin down prelimit put away put on ice send up shut in

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aid allow assist develop encourage enlarge expand extend free grow help increase lengthen raise

STRONG

let go liberate loose loosen open permit release stretch unbind unfasten unloose untie

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.

It’s not just the physical hindrances that restrict commercial shipping activity.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 21, 2026

Department of Agriculture approved waivers that allow 18 states to restrict some foods from being purchased with SNAP, creating confusion for retailers and recipients, according to CivilEats.

From Slate • Apr. 19, 2026

But Mann and Kani are also careful not to restrict the play to their realities, knowing that to feel true today, the story needs room to breathe.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 2026

“If this happens then the price of oil could surge to fresh highs, as it would further restrict supplies of precious commodities,” said Kathleen Brooks, research director at XTB.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 13, 2026

While he thought the Constitution was crystal clear that Congress could not restrict or terminate the slave trade before 1808, it did not prohibit the members of the House from talking about the issue.

From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis

Vocabulary lists containing restrict

Tier 2 Words for the SBAC ELA Items

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List 9

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"Too Young to Drive?" and "Rules of the Road"

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