Definitions

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

Douglas says there is something about the "repetitive beat" and everyone "gathering to release some pent-up energy" which feels like a way to connect to our ancestral roots.

From BBC • May 22, 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

The excitement for Cerebras shares speaks to the pent-up investor fervor over AI.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 14, 2026

To go for so long without prey and suddenly to have so many—his pent-up hunting instinct was lashing out with a vengeance.

From "Life of Pi" by Yann Martel