constrained Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. verb hold back
    encumber; constrain; restrain; cumber.
  2. verb restrict
    stiffen; constrain; tighten; tighten up.
    • Tighten the rules
    • stiffen the regulations
  3. adjective satellite lacking spontaneity; not natural
    forced; strained.
    • a constrained smile
    • forced heartiness
    • a strained smile

WordNet

Con*strained" adjective
Definitions
  1. Marked by constraint; not free; not voluntary; embarrassed; as, a constrained manner; a constrained tone.

Webster 1913