/ kənˈstreɪn; NAmE / verb ( formal )
1.
[ vn to inf ] [ usually passive ] to force sb to do sth or behave in a particular way :
The evidence was so compelling that he felt constrained to accept it.
2.
[ vn ] [ often passive ] constrain sb (from doing sth) to restrict or limit sb/sth :
Research has been constrained by a lack of funds.
She felt constrained from continuing by the threat of losing her job.
••
WORD ORIGIN
Middle English : from Old French constraindre , from Latin constringere bind tightly together.