restrain
verb (used with object)
to hold back from action; keep in check or under control; repress.
restraining
-
present participleof restrain.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
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.
Because pacing isn’t stopping, or even necessarily slowing but . . . might be restraining?
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 17, 2026
The recent pickup in bond yields is further restraining economic activity.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 17, 2026
Victims of domestic violence or harassment often learn about restraining orders from the police.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 16, 2026
The Times’ reporting on restraining orders was undertaken as part of the USC Annenberg Center for Health Journalism’s Domestic Violence Impact Reporting Fund and engagement initiative.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 16, 2026
On his own, his colleague was having difficulty restraining her.
From "Atonement" by Ian McEwan
