constraint
UK: /kənˈstreɪnt/ | US: /kənˈstreɪnt/
n. a limitation or restriction
n. the act of constraining or the state of being constrained
n. (physics) a restriction on the motion or deformation of a system
The word "constraint" originates from the Old French constreinte, derived from the Latin constringere ("to bind tightly together"). The morpheme con- (together) combines with strain (from Latin stringere, "to tighten"), reflecting the idea of binding or restricting something. Over time, it evolved to signify any form of restriction, whether physical, social, or abstract.
The budget imposed a severe constraint on the project.
She felt a constraint in expressing her true feelings.
The design must account for physical constraints like weight and size.
Legal constraints prevented the company from expanding further.
His shyness acted as a constraint in social situations.