restraint of trade

American  

noun

1. action tending to interrupt the free flow of goods and services, as by price fixing and other practices that have the effect of reducing competition.

---

restraint of trade British  

noun

1. action tending to interfere with the freedom to compete in business

---

Etymology

Origin of restraint of trade

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

restraint of trade

The attorneys general, jumping on the issue even before the N.C.A.A. has released specific accusations against the University of Tennessee, said the restriction amounted to an unlawful restraint of trade.

From New York Times ● Jan. 31, 2024

Rogers’ conclusion is another reason Epic didn’t prevail on the monopoly maintenance or restraint of trade claims discussed above, since two of them specifically dealt with IAP.

From The Verge ● Sep. 12, 2021

In most other professions, this strategy would run afoul of the Sherman Act, which prohibits collusion “in restraint of trade or commerce.”

From Slate ● Jun. 21, 2021

That is where there are really damning documents suggesting you engaged in restraint of trade.

From Reuters ● Feb. 25, 2013

He comes pretty near being a combination in restraint of trade, Goldmark does.

From Old Man Curry Race Track Stories by Van Loan, Charles E. (Charles Emmett)