Meaning of the word refrain in English

What does refrain mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

refrain

US /rɪˈfreɪn/

UK /rɪˈfreɪn/

stop oneself from doing something

Example:

•

Please refrain from smoking in this area.

•

She could not refrain from smiling.

Synonym:

abstain desist forbear hold back keep from

a repeated line or set of lines in a poem or song

Example:

•

The choir sang the first verse and then the familiar refrain.

•

The song's catchy refrain made it popular.

Synonym:

chorus burden theme