to limit someone's freedom, or to limit the way something develops or grows
Jim cannot join us because he is constrained by previous plans.
The strict regulations were designed to constrain the company's environmental impact.
Despite the artist's talent, the tight deadline began to constrain the creativity of the project.
The economic downturn continued to constrain job opportunities for many citizens.
The legal agreement was carefully crafted to constrain the actions of the involved parties.
