ˈstrikchə(r) noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English, from Late Latin strictura contraction, stricture, from Latin strictus (past participle of stringere to draw tight, press together) + -ura -ure; in senses 4 & 5, influenced in meaning by Latin strictus, past participle of stringere to touch lightly, graze — more at strain , strike
1. : an abnormal narrowing of the lumen of a tubular organ from various causes (as inflammation, scar tissue, cancer) : constriction
2. obsolete : a beam of light : spark
3. : something that closely restrains or limits : restriction
a stricture against disclosure of classified information — Douglass Cater
a relaxation of tariffs and of strictures upon international currency — Current Biography
4. : an adverse criticism : critical remark : censure
wasn't keen about rousing her suspicions or strictures — David Walden
5. obsolete : a slight touch : sign , trace