# restraint

/ɹiˈstɹeɪnt/ (US) · /ɹɪstɹˈeɪnt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/restraint
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. self-control

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

the ability to control your emotions or actions, especially when you are angry or excited.

For teachers: the quality of self-control or emotional reserve. Uncountable in this abstract sense.

- He showed great restraint by not shouting back at the rude customer.
- The diplomat exercised remarkable restraint during the negotiations, refusing to be baited by the provocative remarks of his counterpart.

Usage: Often follows the verbs 'show', 'exercise', or 'practise'.

## Examples

- He showed great restraint by not shouting back.
- The police officer exercised admirable restraint when dealing with the aggressive crowd during the protest.
- The treaty imposes significant restraints on the proliferation of nuclear weapons, requiring each signatory to submit to regular inspections by international observers.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.