curb
KURBverbMeaning to hold back or keep under control
Memory hook hold back at the CURB. Pip wants to dash after his ball, but Mom holds him back at the curb until the cars pass: she curbs his rush.
The library posted a new rule to curb noise after six o’clock.
In context To curb her spending, Lin left her credit card at home and carried only enough cash for the groceries on her list.
Similar restrain, check, limit, control
Opposite unleash, encourage
From French courbe, “curved,” first the curved strap or chain on a horse’s bit that holds the horse in check.