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curb

verb

/kɜrb/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of curb

To restrain, limit, or control something, typically to prevent excess or undesirable behavior or to maintain order.
"She made a conscious effort to curb her impulsive shopping habits."

Detailed meaning of curb

When you curb something, you exert a degree of control over it, imposing restrictions or regulations to keep it within certain boundaries. This action can be applied to various aspects, such as curbing one's spending habits to manage finances better, curbing pollution by implementing stricter environmental regulations, or curbing the spread of a disease through quarantine measures. The intention behind curbing is often to establish a sense of discipline or moderation, promoting responsible behavior and ensuring that certain actions or conditions do not exceed reasonable limits.

Example sentences containing curb

1. The city implemented new traffic regulations to curb reckless driving.
2. The government introduced measures to curb illegal immigration.
3. The school implemented strict policies to curb bullying.
4. He used meditation techniques to curb his anxiety.
5. The company implemented cost-cutting measures to curb excessive spending.
6. The police set up checkpoints to curb drunk driving.

History and etymology of curb

The verb 'curb' has its etymological origins in the Middle English word 'curben,' which is thought to be derived from the Old French word 'courber,' meaning 'to bend' or 'to curve.' The transition from bending to restraining is intriguing, as it reflects the idea of curbing or bending someone's behavior away from excess or undesirable actions. This transformation in meaning occurred over time, and 'curb' came to signify the act of restraining, limiting, or controlling something to maintain order or prevent excess. The etymology of 'curb' highlights its historical connection to the notion of bending or guiding behavior in a specific direction, emphasizing its role in maintaining discipline and control in various contexts.

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Further usage examples of curb

1. The restaurant introduced healthier menu options to curb unhealthy eating habits.
2. The teacher implemented strategies to curb disruptive behavior in the classroom.
3. The community organized a neighborhood watch program to curb crime rates.
4. The country implemented strict measures to curb the spread of the virus.
5. The company installed security cameras to curb theft in the workplace.
6. The government aims to curb pollution with stricter regulations.
7. She decided to curb her spending to save for a vacation.
8. The teacher used discipline to curb unruly behavior in class.
9. To curb overeating, he practiced mindful eating techniques.
10. They implemented speed limits to curb accidents on the road.
11. The company adopted policies to curb workplace harassment.
12. The mayor promised to curb crime rates in the city.
13. To curb procrastination, set daily goals and stick to them.
14. The doctor advised him to curb his sugar intake for health.
15. The coach worked to curb his team's turnovers in the game.
16. Conservation efforts seek to curb deforestation in the region.
17. She used meditation to curb anxiety and stress.
18. The campaign aimed to curb substance abuse among youth.
19. To curb littering, fines were imposed in public areas.
20. The new law intends to curb illegal online activities.
21. They organized community patrols to curb vandalism.
22. He needed to curb his impulsive reactions in meetings.
23. The strict policy helped curb cheating in the exam.
24. The organization's goal is to curb hunger globally.
25. Public awareness campaigns aim to curb smoking rates.