(~s)
1.
You can use ~s to refer to severe criticism or disapproval of something. (FORMAL)
...Mencken’s ~s on the 1920s, with its self-righteous prohibition on alcohol and unconventional ideas...
N-COUNT: usu pl, oft N on/against n
2.
You can refer to things that limit what you can do as ~s of a particular kind. (mainly FORMAL)
Your goals are hindered by financial ~s.
= restriction
N-COUNT: usu pl, usu with supp