restriction

noun

re·​stric·​tion ri-ˈstrik-shən 

1

: something that restricts: such as

a

: a regulation that restricts or restrains

restrictions for hunters

b

: a limitation on the use or enjoyment of property or a facility

2

: an act of restricting : the condition of being restricted

Synonyms

• check
• circumscription
• condition
• constraint
• curb
• fetter
• limitation
• restraint
• stricture

Examples of restriction in a Sentence

Building in that area came with some restrictions.

They placed restrictions on smoking indoors.

They will lift export restrictions.

illegal restriction of free speech

Recent Examples on the Web

The move may be seen as a retaliation over the U.S. imposing restrictions on the sale of advanced AI chips and technology to China. —Nathan Bomey, Axios, 9 Dec. 2024

And that’s because YouTube offers fewer restrictions on format, length, and style — as well as the ability to tap into passionate fandoms. —Anne Marie Nelson-Bogle, Forbes, 9 Dec. 2024

Under the Biden administration, the US again expanded flights to destinations across the island, opened up online payment systems to Cuban entrepreneurs and relaxed restrictions on US citizens traveling to the island. —Patrick Oppmann, CNN, 8 Dec. 2024

As with most high-end safari camps, laundry service is complimentary (which is a big help considering weight restrictions on light aircraft). —Nicole Trilivas, Travel + Leisure, 8 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English restriccioun, from Anglo-French restriction, from Late Latin restriction-, restrictio, from Latin restringere

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing restriction

• restriction enzyme
• restriction fragment length polymorphism

Kids Definition

restriction

noun

re·​stric·​tion ri-ˈstrik-shən 

1

: something (as a law or rule) that restricts

2

: an act of restricting : the condition of being restricted

Medical Definition

restriction

noun

re·​stric·​tion ri-ˈstrik-shən 

often attributive

: the breaking of double-stranded DNA into fragments by restriction enzymes

restriction sites

Legal Definition

restriction

noun

re·​stric·​tion

1

: something that restricts: as

a

: a regulation that restricts or restrains

b

: a limitation on the use or enjoyment of property or a facility

2

a

: an act of restricting

b

: the state of being restricted