Definition of CONSTRAINT

constraint

Plural: constraints

Noun

  • the state of being physically constrained
  • a device that retards something's motion
  • the act of constraining; the threat or use of force to control the thoughts or behavior of others
  • Something that constrains; a restriction.
  • An irresistible force or compulsion.
  • The repression of one's feelings.
  • A condition that a solution to an optimization problem must satisfy.
  • A linkage or other restriction that maintains database integrity.

Examples

  • An engineer must recognize the difference between a constraint (to work within) and a problem (to be eliminated via resolution).
  • They confessed, but only under severe constraint.

Origin / Etymology

From Middle English constreynt, constreynte, from Old French constreinte, past participle of constreindre (“to constrain”), from Latin cōnstringō (corresponding to the past participle cōnstrictus).

Synonyms

restraint

Scrabble Score: 12

constraint: valid Scrabble (US) TWL Word
constraint: valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
constraint: valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 15

constraint: valid Words With Friends Word