— constrainable , adj. — constrainer , n. — constrainingly , adv.
/keuhn strayn"/ , v.t.
1. to force, compel, or oblige: He was constrained to admit the offense.
2. to confine forcibly, as by bonds.
3. to repress or restrain: Cold weather constrained the plant's growth.
[ 1275-1325; ME constrei ( g ) nen constrei ( g ) n- (s. of constreindre ) constringere. See CON-, STRAIN 1 ]
Syn. 1. coerce. 2. check, bind.
Ant. 2. free.