Definition of: constrain

(kən·strān′) v.t.
1. To compel by physical or moral means; oblige.
2. To confine, as by bonds.
3. To restrain; compel to inaction.
4. Obs. To violate; force. See synonyms under COMPEL, MAKE, RESTRAIN. [<OF constreindre <L constringere <com- together + stringere bind tight. Doublet of CONSTRINGE.]
—con·strain′a·ble adjective
—con-strain′·er noun