- 1[usually passive] constrain somebody to do something to force someone to do something or behave in a particular way The evidence was so compelling that he felt constrained to accept it. The company said that it was constrained to raise prices.
- 2[often passive] to restrict or limit someone or something constrain something Research has been constrained by a lack of funds. constrain somebody (from doing something) She felt constrained from continuing by the threat of losing her job. Men and women are becoming less constrained by stereotyped roles.
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NAmE//kənˈstreɪn//
(formal)Verb Forms present simple I / you / we / they constrain he / she / it constrains
past simple constrained
-ing form constraining
Check pronunciation: constrain