Restrain/rɪˈstreɪn/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Emotion Management Use 'restrain' when talking about controlling strong emotions or natural reactions. She had to restrain her anger when she saw the broken vase. Pro Tip 2/3Internal Struggle 'Restrain' often indicates an internal struggle to avoid an action one is tempted to do. He restrained himself from yelling during the debate. Pro Tip 3/3Prevent Spontaneity It suggests stopping oneself from doing something spontaneous or impulsive. I had to restrain myself from buying the expensive shoes.