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

It has taken on renewed importance in the past year as an indicator that highlights both worker demand from employers and the labor supply as curtailed immigration and retirements restrict available workers.

From Barron's • May 22, 2026

Federal regulations generally restrict illiquid securities to 15% of a mutual fund or ETF’s assets.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 16, 2026

“The market’s not working the way it should. … These major producers have really worked to restrict and limit access to any competitors to get into the market.”

From Salon • May 15, 2026

And the following year, the Supreme Court unanimously rejected an effort to restrict access to the drug.

From BBC • May 14, 2026

While Islam doesn’t restrict women from exercising—in fact all Muslims are required to care for their bodies through exercise and healthy eating habits—women face a unique set of challenges with sports.

From "Proud" by Ibtihaj Muhammad

Related Words

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