straitjacket
word
Definition
A strong jacket with long sleeves that tie behind the back, used to stop someone from moving their arms, especially in mental hospitals. It can also mean something that severely limits freedom or creativity.
Usage & Nuances
'Straitjacket' is formal/literal for the physical garment, but often used metaphorically for rigid restrictions ('a financial straitjacket', 'bureaucratic straitjacket'). Not to be confused with 'straightjacket' (pronounced the same, but incorrect spelling).
Example Sentences
Budget cuts became a financial straitjacket for the project.
natural
The patient wore a straitjacket for his own safety.
basic
A straitjacket is usually used in mental hospitals.
basic
The rules felt like a straitjacket to the students.
basic
He felt society put a straitjacket on his creativity.
natural
I don’t want to put you in a straitjacket, but we need some rules here.
natural