Find Synonyms

restrain Synonyms

Another word for restrain

Choosing another word for restrain depends on context, so the 15 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 2 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
JUMP TO:

• verb (Context 1)

To prevent someone or something from doing something; to keep under control or within limits.

Usage Example

"She had to hold back herself from laughing during the solemn ceremony."

Strongest
hold back
curb
rein in
Strong
control
check
suppress
inhibit
bridle

• verb (Context 2)

To deprive someone or something of freedom of movement or action, especially by physical force or binding.

Usage Example

"The veterinarian gently restrained the nervous dog while administering the vaccine."

Strongest
confine
Strong
hold down
bind
detain
pinion
fetter
shackle

Opposites of restrain

The opposite of restrain shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:

release
free
liberate
unleash
incite
encourage
untie
provoke
See all opposites of restrain

• Nearby Words

restorative
restore
restorer
restrain
restrainable
restrained
restrainedly

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Restrain. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/restrain
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.