What does refrain mean?
Refrain has two closely related but distinct uses. As a verb, it means to stop yourself from doing or saying something, as in “refrain from interrupting.” It often carries a tone of deliberate self-control or politeness, suggesting that a person could act but chooses not to. As a noun, a refrain is a phrase, line, or musical melody that repeats throughout a song, poem, speech, or other work. In this sense, the word often suggests something memorable and recurring, such as a chorus or a repeated slogan. The two senses share an underlying idea of repetition and restraint: a refrain in music returns again and again, while to refrain is to hold back an impulse. Together, they make “refrain” useful in discussions of both personal discipline and artistic structure.
To abstain from doing something or to avoid saying or expressing something.
"He refrained from making any further comment."
Usually used with “from,” followed by a noun or gerund.
A phrase, line, or melody that recurs in a song, poem, or other composition.
"The song's final refrain echoes the main theme of the chorus."
Common in discussions of songs, poems, speeches, and other works in which words or music are repeated.
The plural is used for distinct recurring phrases, lines, or melodies.
"The poem contains several memorable refrains."
A refrain keeps coming back, while the verb asks you to hold something back.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does refrain come from?
The word comes through Middle English from Old French refrein, meaning “refrain” or “a repeated refrain,” ultimately from Latin refringere, “to break off.” Latin refringere was formed from re-, meaning “back” or “again,” and frangere, “to break.” The same Latin root is reflected in English words such as fracture and fragment.
Related word forms
How refrain is actually used
As a verb, “refrain” is formal but widely used and is usually followed by “from.” As a noun, it can refer to a repeated line in a song or poem, often one that recurs between verses.