restrict

Pronunciation: /rɪˈstrɪkt/

verb

Difficulty: common

Definition of restrict

To impose limitations or boundaries on someone or something, often to maintain control or prevent excess.

Origin of restrict

Language of origin: Latin

Root word: restringere

Original meaning: to bind tightly, hold back

How it evolved: Originally used in Latin to describe physical constraints, the term broadened in English to include figurative limitations on actions, behavior, or resources.

Derived from the Latin word 'restringere,' meaning 'to bind tightly or hold back,' the term evolved to signify imposing limits or controls.

First known use: 15th century

How to Remember restrict

Think of 'restrict' as putting a 'strict' boundary around something to control or limit it.

Synonyms for restrict

Antonyms of restrict

restrict in a Sentence

  1. The government enacted laws to restrict the use of certain chemicals harmful to the environment.
  2. Her parents decided to restrict her screen time to two hours a day to encourage healthier habits.
  3. The treaty aimed to restrict the proliferation of nuclear weapons among member nations.

restrict in Literature & Culture

The concept of restriction is a common theme in literature, often symbolizing oppression or control, as seen in works like George Orwell's '1984' where freedoms are severely restricted.

Usage Notes

Commonly used to describe rules, boundaries, or limitations, 'restrict' carries a neutral to negative connotation depending on context. Avoid confusing it with 'restrain,' which emphasizes holding back physical motion or emotion.

Why restrict Matters for GRE & SAT

Frequently tested on the GRE due to its versatile usage in describing limitations in scientific, legal, or social contexts, making it essential for understanding complex passages.

Word Family

restriction (noun)
A limitation or rule that restricts something.
restricted (adjective)
Confined or limited within boundaries.
restrictive (adjective)
Serving to impose limits or constraints.

Did You Know?

  • The word 'restrict' is often used in legal and governmental contexts, such as in 'restricted areas' or 'restricted access.'
  • In psychology, 'restrictive' diets or behaviors are studied for their impact on mental health and well-being.
  • The term appears in popular movies and books, such as dystopian stories where governments impose restrictive laws.

More Vocabulary Words Starting with R

  • Recalcitrant — Having an obstinately uncooperative attitude; stubbornly resistant to authority.
  • radical — far-reaching; major
  • radical — Relating to or affecting the fundamental nature of something
  • radical — Relating to or affecting the fundamental nature of something
  • radical — far-reaching; major
  • ramification — a consequence or resulting action of a previous event
  • ramification — A consequence of an action or event, especially a complex one
  • ramification — a consequence or resulting action of a previous event
  • rampant — unrestrained or unchecked, usually in a negative manner
  • rampant — Spreading unchecked; flourishing in an unwelcome way