clampdown

[klamp-doun]

noun

1. crackdown.

Word History and Origins

Origin of clampdown¹

First recorded in 1935–40; noun use of verb phrase clamp down

Example Sentences

The arrest came shortly as Amnesty International warned of increased rights violations, including the abductions of senior opposition officials, and a clampdown on civic space.

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Hegseth has defended his draconian clampdown by arguing that “Pentagon access is a privilege, not a right.”

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China has said its clampdowns show its "resolute" commitment to stamping out the scammers, but Ruser and other experts say they only temporarily disrupt the syndicates.

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Combined with clampdowns on protests, critical journalists and academics, she concludes: "I think these point in a non-peaceful direction."

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What’s unfolding before our eyes will eventually tell us if we are living at the beginning of another clampdown or a mere hiccup in a prolonged cabaret.

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Related Words

• crackdown 
• embargo 
• repression 
• restriction