in check

ADJECTIVE

restrained

Synonyms

STRONGEST

discreet laid-back mild muted reasonable reticent subdued tasteful unobtrusive

STRONG

chilled controlled cool moderate plain retiring shrinking steady withdrawn

WEAK

bottled-up calm and collected conservative corked up in charge inobtrusive on a leash self-controlled soft temperate unaffable undemonstrative under control under wraps unexcessive unexpansive unextreme uptight

Antonyms

STRONGEST

communicative

STRONG

extroverted friendly outgoing

WEAK

assured bold confident

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The central bank hiked rates by 0.5 basis points to 5.25 percent last month -- the first increase in two years -- as it looked to stabilise the rupiah and keep inflation in check.

From Barron's • Jun. 4, 2026

The company quickly raised prices and kept marketing spending in check.

From MarketWatch • May 25, 2026

He kept his emotions in check and all the experience he has gained in the last few years, developing his game, it was brilliant.

From BBC • May 18, 2026

By keeping the population of mid-level predators in check, they help protect resources lower down on the food chain — allowing vegetation, streamside habitat and other wildlife species to thrive.

From Los Angeles Times • May 16, 2026

I could have smacked my forehead over her blind stupidity, but I held myself in check.

From "The Detective's Assistant" by Kate Hannigan

in check

Example Sentences

Related Words