CONSTRAINED definition: forced, compelled, or obliged. See examples of constrained used in a sentence.

The meaning of CONSTRAIN is to force by imposed stricture, restriction, or limitation. How to use constrain in a sentence. Synonym Discussion of Constrain.

To produce in a forced or inhibited manner: "This smile seemed to touch something off in her ... and playfully she constrained her own roguish smile" (Naeem Murr).

CONSTRAINED definition: 1. forced to do something against your will: 2. Constrained behaviour is forced and unnatural: 3…. Learn more.

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2025 con•strained (kən strānd′), adj. forced, compelled, or obliged: a constrained confession. stiff or unnatural; uneasy or …

be/feel constrained to do something The evidence was so compelling that he felt constrained to accept it. The company said that it was constrained to raise prices.

Definition of 'constrained' constrained in British English (kənˈstreɪnd ) adjective embarrassed, unnatural, or forced

We were constrained [= limited] by the short amount of time we had. Teenagers often feel constrained [= limited] by rules. She felt constrained [= (more commonly) felt compelled] to apologize for the harm …

To constrain is to hold back, restrain, or confine. If you've ever had to constrain a toddler in the middle of a temper tantrum, you know you have to watch out for flailing limbs.

CONSTRAINED meaning: 1. forced to do something against your will: 2. Constrained behaviour is forced and unnatural: 3…. Learn more.