n.
Pronunciation: ri- ' fr ā n
Function: verb
Etymology: Middle English refreynen, from Anglo-French refreiner, refreindre, from Latin refrenare, from re- + frenum bridle ― more at FRENUM
Date: 14th century
transitive verb archaic : CURB , RESTRAIN
intransitive verb : to keep oneself from doing, feeling, or indulging in something and especially from following a passing impulse < refrain ed from having dessert>
– re · frain · ment \ -m ə nt \ noun