curb

[kɜːb]

[kɝb]

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An edge or boundary that limits or separates something.

When we talk about curbs, we often think of the raised edges on sidewalks and roads. These curbs are there to separate the sidewalk from the road and help keep people safe by preventing them from stepping into traffic. But a curb can also be used as a verb - for example, if you're trying to cut down your spending habits, you might try to curb your desire for impulse buys. In this sense, "to curb" means to control or limit something, often because it's becoming too much of a problem.

How common is "curb"?

Word curb is considered uncommon in modern English.
It has a balanced usage among all categories: speech, fiction, newspapers and academic texts.

Definitions

noun

A concrete margin along the edge of a road; a kerb (UK, Australia, New Zealand)
A raised margin along the edge of something, such as a well or the eye of a dome, as a strengthening.
Something that checks or restrains; a restraint.
A riding or driving bit for a horse that has rein action which amplifies the pressure in the mouth by leverage advantage placing pressure on the poll via the crown piece of the bridle and chin groove via a curb chain.
A sidewalk, covered or partially enclosed, bordering the airport terminal road system with adjacent paved areas to permit vehicles to off-load or load passengers.
A swelling on the back part of the hind leg of a horse, just behind the lowest part of the hock joint, generally causing lameness.

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