curb
UK[kɜːb]US[kɜːrb]
n
a stone or concrete edging to a street or path.
n
a check or restraint on something.
v
to restrain or keep in check.
Etymology
the word 'curb' traces a fascinating path from a physical shape to an abstract concept of control. it originates from the latin adjective 'curvus', meaning 'bent' or 'curved'. entering english via old french 'courbe', it initially referred to a curved strap used to restrain a horse, linking the physical bend to a function of restraint. this concrete object, the curved bit or the stone edging of a path that 'bends' it into shape, provided a powerful metaphor. over time, the meaning expanded from the physical edge or check to encompass any action or means of restraining or controlling something, completing its journey from describing a curve to signifying limitation.
Analysis
this word is a simplex form. it entered english from middle french 'courbe' meaning 'curved object, a bend', which derived from latin 'curvus' meaning 'bent, curved'. its functional role evolved from a concrete noun for a curved edge to a more abstract noun and verb denoting restraint.
Examples
she stood on the curb waiting to cross the street.
the government introduced new measures to curb inflation.
he found it hard to curb his enthusiasm.