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chilled controlled cool moderate plain retiring shrinking steady withdrawn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.

Vietnam has formally protested against China's construction on Antelope Reef, but only in restrained, diplomatic terms.

From BBC • Jun. 3, 2026

While Fraser delivers an external performance as the tough American general, Scott offers a restrained, mostly tamped-down depiction of the repressed and methodical Stagg.

From Los Angeles Times • May 29, 2026

However, by the 12 month mark, emotional eating and restrained eating had largely returned to their original levels.

From Science Daily • May 7, 2026

Instead, he suffered a minor knee injury after he "fell to the ground, was restrained by law enforcement, and was placed under arrest," the department said.

From Barron's • May 5, 2026

I restrained myself at that point more out of friendship for Burt than anything else.

From "Flowers for Algernon" by Daniel Keyes

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