stricture
UK: ˈstrɪktʃə | US: ˈstrɪktʃər
n. a restriction or limitation, often critical in nature
n. (medical) an abnormal narrowing of a bodily passage
n. a stern criticism or censure
The word "stricture" originates from the Latin strictura, derived from strictus (past participle of stringere, meaning "to bind or tighten"). The morpheme "strict" retains its core meaning of severity or tightness, while the suffix "-ure" (from Latin -ura) denotes a resulting state or action. Historically, it referred to physical constriction (e.g., medical strictures) before expanding metaphorically to denote criticism or constraints.
The stricture on public gatherings was lifted after the pandemic eased.
The doctor diagnosed a stricture in the patient’s esophagus.
His review contained a harsh stricture of the film’s plot.
Legal strictures prevented the company from expanding its operations.
She faced strictures from her peers for violating the ethical guidelines.