pent-up

[pent-uhp] / ˈpɛntˈʌp /

ADJECTIVE

held within

Synonyms

STRONGEST

repressed stifled suppressed

WEAK

bottled-up bridled checked constrained curbed held in check held-back inhibited restrained restricted smothered

Antonyms

WEAK

public released

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 prospect of a sudden release of pent-up supply has tempered bullish sentiment and reduced the market’s sensitivity to geopolitical headlines.”

From Barron's • Jun. 10, 2026

When the jury took just over two hours to reach a guilty verdict on the afternoon of 23 March, the pent-up emotion in Belfast's Court 13 was released.

From BBC • Jun. 3, 2026

Yet “Born to Kill” thrums with the pent-up energy of a guy who glimpsed the possibility that he might not sing again.

From Los Angeles Times • May 15, 2026

But the international surge suggests something more fundamental: an enormous reservoir of pent-up demand that is only beginning to be tapped.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 7, 2026

It assaulted my senses with a pent-up rage that made my head reel, my stomach chum and my legs wobble.

From "Life of Pi" by Yann Martel