restrained

adjective

re·​strained ri-ˈstrānd How to pronounce restrained (audio)
: marked by restraint : not excessive or extravagant
restrainedly adverb

Examples of restrained in a Sentence

She was admired for her restrained behavior. a restrained style of architecture The room was decorated with restrained colors.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Simmons' initial reaction to the insult was a bit more restrained than his typical unfiltered comments. Marina Watts, People.com, 14 Apr. 2025 This year, the prestigious but far more restrained perpetual calendar was the complication of choice. Victoria Gomelsky, Robb Report, 11 Apr. 2025 Japan's reaction was more restrained, and Britain said trade negotiations would continue. Hannah Parry, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Apr. 2025 For vineyards planted on the west side of Paso adjacent to the Pacific Ocean, cooler growing conditions can allow for more restrained styles of wine. Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 24 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for restrained

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of restrained was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Restrained.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/restrained. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

restrained

adjective
re·​strained ri-ˈstrānd How to pronounce restrained (audio)
: marked by restraint : showing careful control
restrainedly adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on restrained

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