A Quick and Simple Dictionary

refrain

1. Verb.  (transitive, archaic) To hold back, to restrain (someone or something). (defdate, from 14th c.) .
2. Verb.  (reflexive, archaic) To show restraint; to hold oneself back. (defdate, from 14th c.) .
3. Verb.  (context, transitive) To repress (a desire, emotion etc.); to check or curb. (defdate, from 14th c.) .
4. Verb.  (intransitive) To stop oneself (term, from) some action or interference; to abstain. (defdate, from 15th c.) .
5. Verb.  (context, transitive) To abstain from (food or drink). (defdate, from 16th c.) .
6. Noun.  The chorus or burden of a song repeated at the end of each verse or stanza.