Constrain

Con·strain′ (kŏn·strān′), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Constrained; p. pr. & vb. n. Constraining.] [OF. constraindre, F. contrainde, L. constringere; con- + stringere to draw tight. See Strain, and. cf. Constrict, Constringe.] 1. To secure by bonds; to chain; to bond or confine; to hold tightly; to constringe.

He binds in chains The drowsy prophet, and his limbs constrains. Dryden.

When winter frosts constrain the fields with cold. Dryden.

2. To bring into a narrow compass; to compress.

How the strait stays the slender waist constrain. Gay.

3. To hold back by force; to restrain; to repress.

My sire in caves constrains the winds. Dryden.

4. To compel; to force; to necessitate; to oblige.

The love of Christ constraineth us. 2. Cor. v. 14.

I was constrained to appeal unto Cæsar. Acts xxviii. 19.

5. To violate; to ravish. [Obs.] Shak.

6. To produce in such a manner as to give an unnatural effect; as, a constrained voice.

Syn. — To compel; force; drive; impel; urge; press.