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chilled controlled cool moderate plain retiring shrinking steady withdrawn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.

Only after the prey is fully restrained does the spider approach and wrap it in silk.

From Science Daily • Jun. 26, 2026

By contrast, the ECB’s key rate was at a level that neither restrained nor encouraged growth, and policymakers appeared content to leave it there.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 15, 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

On tracks like Run Down the City: Monica, Naal Nachna and Move - Yeh Ishq Ishq, Reble's restrained verses cut through the film's louder, more chaotic energy, quickly making her a fan favourite.

From BBC • May 15, 2026

Citra found herself wanting to grip Rowan’s hand in anticipation and squeeze it until it was bloodless, but she restrained herself.

From "Scythe" by Neal Shusterman

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