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constrain Meaning & Definition

/kənˈstɹeɪn/

What Does Constrain Mean?

Constrain is used as a verb meaning To force physically, by strong persuasion or pressuring; to compel; to oblige. It can also mean To keep within close bounds; to confine.

Constrain at a Glance

Part of speechverb
Pronunciation/kənˈstɹeɪn/
Synonymsrestrain, encumber and tighten up
Verb formsconstrains, constraining, constrained

Constrain Definition (Verb)

  1. To force physically, by strong persuasion or pressuring; to compel; to oblige.
  2. To keep within close bounds; to confine.
  3. To reduce a result in response to limited resources.

Synonyms of Constrain

Constrain synonyms and antonyms →

Word Forms & Grammar

constrain (third-person singular simple present constrains, present participle constraining, simple past and past participle constrained)

Words That Rhyme With Constrain

Origin of Constrain

From Middle English constreinen, from Old French constreindre, from Latin cōnstringō, from cōn- (“with, together”) +‎ stringō (“to draw, bind or tie tight”), ultimately from Proto-Indo-European *streyg- (“to stroke, to shear, stiff”).

Frequently Asked Questions About Constrain

What part of speech is constrain?

Constrain is a verb.

What is another word for constrain?

You can replace constrain with words such as restrain, encumber and tighten up. See the full list of constrain synonyms and antonyms.

What is the past tense of constrain?

The past tense of constrain is constrained. The present participle is constraining.

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