noun
Mechanical device that stops or slows a wheel or moving part; also used for a skid placed under a wheel.
車輪に歯止めをかけて、坂道で動かないようにした。
I put a brake on the wheel to keep it from moving on the slope.
noun
brake; check; restraint; limit
Figurative use: something that restrains or puts a limit on an activity, trend, or spending.
政府はインフレに歯止めをかける政策を発表した。
The government announced policies to put a brake on inflation.
彼の浪費に歯止めがきかなくなった。
His spending got out of control.