curb

 
Pronunciation: /kəːb/

noun

  • 1a check or restraint on something: plans to introduce tougher curbs on insider dealing
  • 2 (also curb bit) a type of bit with a strap or chain attached which passes under a horse’s lower jaw, used as a check.
  • 3North Americanvariant spelling of kerb
  • 4a swelling on the back of a horse’s hock, caused by spraining a ligament.

verb

[with object]
  • restrain or keep in check: she promised she would curb her temper
  • restrain (a horse) by means of a curb: both men were instinctively curbing their horses

Origin:

late 15th century (denoting a strap fastened to the bit): from Old French courber 'bend, bow', from Latin curvare (see curve)

Do not confuse curb with kerb. Curb means 'control or limit something' ( she promised to curb her temper) or 'a thing that controls or limits', whereas kerb means 'the stone edging of a pavement' (the spelling curb in this sense is American).