restrained

[ri-streynd] / rɪˈstreɪnd /

ADJECTIVE

calm, quiet

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chilled controlled cool moderate plain retiring shrinking steady withdrawn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 in check 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.

It’s unprecedented, Sinnar explained, because the state-level designation, while distinct, goes beyond the federal law governing the designation of terrorist organizations, which have been restrained by the First Amendment.

From Salon • Apr. 17, 2026

Ms. Edebiri’s restrained and moving performance makes us reflect upon how radical that was, and maybe still is.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

It was always an unlikely political bromance: the camera-loving, right-wing businessman hitting it off with a restrained, left-wing London lawyer.

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

Smith had studied the architects while a student at Hampton University, and has documented on his Instagram their various stylings, which range from restrained to whimsical to ornate.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 11, 2026

The police were uncharacteristically restrained and their behavior baffled us.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela

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