n.
- a control or limit:
curbs on cigarette advertising.
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(also curb bit)
a type of bit with a strap or chain attached which passes under a horse's lower jaw, used as a check.
- N. Amer. variant spelling of kerb.
- a swelling on the back of a horse's hock, caused by spraining a ligament.
v.
keep in check; control.
Etymology
C15: from OFr. courber ‘bend, bow’, from L. curvare (see curve).