restrict

American  

[ri-strikt] / rɪˈstrɪkt /

verb (used with object)

1. to confine or keep within limits, as of space, action, choice, intensity, or quantity.

   Synonyms:

   obstruct, impede, hinder, hamper, block, check, abridge, restrain, limit, confine, circumscribe

   Antonyms:

   surpass, exceed

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restrict British  

/ rɪˈstrɪkt /

verb

1. (often foll by to) to confine or keep within certain often specified limits or selected bounds

   to restrict one's drinking to the evening

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Other Word Forms

• derestrict verb (used with object)
• nonrestricting adjective
• overrestrict verb (used with object)
• prerestrict verb (used with object)
• restricter noun
• restrictor noun

Etymology

Origin of restrict

First recorded in 1525–35; from Latin restrictus “drawn back, tightened, bound, reserved,” adjective use of past participle of restringere “to bind back, bind fast”; see restrain

Explanation

To restrict is to limit. If you want to eat more healthily, you might restrict, or limit, yourself to eating only foods containing fruits and vegetables –- like carrot cake and apple pie. You'll often encounter different words related to restrict. A restriction is a law or rule, like the restriction against driving a car without a license. Something that is not permitted is restricted, and this word is often used to designate physical locations that are off limits to the public. You'll often see characters in movies break into restricted areas to obtain secret information.

Example Sentences

That will restrict the once broad programming reach of national networks like ABC, NBC, and CBS.

From Slate • Apr. 21, 2026

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

From MarketWatch • Apr. 21, 2026

Vivid Seats and other platforms restrict sales in the UK, but British customers can often get around that by using a VPN service.

From BBC • Apr. 17, 2026

Lanning said she and other teachers frequently buy classroom materials out of pocket, but healthcare costs severely restrict their ability to continue to do so.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 16, 2026

But periodic attempts to discipline bribe takers, restrict market activities, force servi-cha vehicles off the road, and confiscate cash were met with widespread resistance.

From "Escape from Camp 14: One Man's Remarkable Odyssey from North Korea to Freedom in the West" by Blaine Harden

Related Words

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