restriction

noun

re·​stric·​tion ri-ˈstrik-shən 

1

: something that restricts: such as

a

: a regulation that restricts or restrains

restrictions for hunters

b

: a limitation on the use or enjoyment of property or a facility

2

: an act of restricting : the condition of being restricted

Synonyms of restriction

• limitation
• constraint

Examples of restriction in a Sentence

Building in that area came with some restrictions.

They placed restrictions on smoking indoors.

They will lift export restrictions.

illegal restriction of free speech

Recent Examples on the Web

The measure, which would not apply to elections for federal offices, would impose restrictions on how the funds may be used, including a requirement that recipients demonstrate a base of public support. — Sofia Williams, Sacbee.com, 1 Oct. 2026

The Florida Department of Education is considering a new dress code policy for employees that puts restrictions on religious head coverings, Crocs and short skirts. — Ana Goñi-Lessan, Miami Herald, 1 Oct. 2026

Easing restrictions on operating a business also would allow the city to use its intellectual property to sell merchandise with city logos, as is done in other cities including New York, Yaroslavsky said. — Roger Vincent, Los Angeles Times, 1 Oct. 2026

Hinojosa has attacked Abbott on data centers (an issue where Abbott has shifted by calling for more restrictions) and Flock cameras. — Molly Hennessy-Fiske, Washington Post, 1 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English restriccioun, from Anglo-French restriction, from Late Latin restriction-, restrictio, from Latin restringere

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing restriction

• restriction enzyme
• restriction fragment length polymorphism

Rhymes for restriction

• addiction
• affliction
• constriction
• conviction
• depiction
• eviction
• infliction
• nonfiction
• prediction
• antifriction
• benediction
• contradiction

Kids Definition

restriction

noun

re·​stric·​tion ri-ˈstrik-shən 

1

: something (as a law or rule) that restricts

2

: an act of restricting : the condition of being restricted

Medical Definition

restriction

noun

re·​stric·​tion ri-ˈstrik-shən 

often attributive

: the breaking of double-stranded DNA into fragments by restriction enzymes

restriction sites

Legal Definition

restriction

noun

re·​stric·​tion

1

: something that restricts: as

a

: a regulation that restricts or restrains

b

: a limitation on the use or enjoyment of property or a facility

2

a

: an act of restricting

b

: the state of being restricted