How to pronounce constrain
Say it like kun-STRAYN. Constrain has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (STRAYN).
- kun
- STRAYN
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Constrain pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- kunKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- STRAYNSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "ay" in day.
American vs British pronunciation of constrain
American and British speakers say constrain in essentially the same way: /kənˈstreɪn/ in the US and /kənˈstreɪn/ in the UK.
British respelling: kun-STRAYN.
What does constrain mean?
- To force physically, by strong persuasion or pressuring; to compel; to oblige.
- To keep within close bounds; to confine.
- To reduce a result in response to limited resources.
Where does constrain come from?
From Middle English constreinen, from Old French constreindre, from Latin cōnstringō, from cōn- (“with, together”) + stringō (“to draw, bind or tie tight”), ultimately from Proto-Indo-European *streyg- (“to stroke, to shear, stiff”).
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Words that rhyme with constrain
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of constrain.
Questions about saying constrain
How do you pronounce constrain?
Say kun-STRAYN. The American pronunciation is /kənˈstreɪn/. In British English it is /kənˈstreɪn/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in constrain?
Constrain has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (STRAYN). Broken into parts: kun · STRAYN.
Do Americans and Brits say constrain the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /kənˈstreɪn/ and the British form is /kənˈstreɪn/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.