restrain

 
Pronunciation: /rɪˈstreɪn/

verb

[with object]
  • prevent (someone or something) from doing something; keep under control or within limits: the need to restrain public expenditure he had to be restrained from walking out (as adjective restraining) Cara put a restraining hand on his arm
  • control (a strong urge or emotion): Amiss had to restrain his impatience
  • deprive (someone) of freedom of movement or personal liberty: leg cuffs are used for restraining and transporting violent criminals
  • (of a seat belt) hold (a person or part of their body) down and back while in a vehicle seat: all front seats must be equipped with seat belts which restrain the upper part of the body

Derivatives

restrainable

adjective

restrainer

noun

Origin:

Middle English: from Old French restreign-, stem of restreindre, from Latin restringere, from re- 'back' + stringere 'to tie, pull tight'