restrained

adjective

re·​strained ri-ˈstrānd 

: marked by restraint : not excessive or extravagant

restrainedly

ri-ˈstrā-nəd-lē 

adverb

Synonyms of restrained

• muted
• subdued
• quiet
• repressed
• understated
• conservative

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

Pearl necklaces, floral skirts, and basket bags all combine polished materials and restrained proportions with a retro flair. — Alex Sales, Glamour, 24 July 2026

Where Heron feels restrained and almost surgical, Hornbill is shaped for users who want more contact with the handle, more leverage through the cut, and a stronger physical presence without moving into oversized tactical-knife territory. — New Atlas, 21 July 2026

Drewchin operates in this more restrained mode throughout the record, peeling back the layers of her dizzying art pop. — Colin Joyce, Pitchfork, 20 July 2026

Expectations for Langford should still be in the restrained, cautiously optimistic category. — Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for restrained

• appertained
• ascertained
• entertained
• overstrained
• preordained
• unconstrained
• unexplained
• unrestrained
• abstained
• arraigned
• attained
• bloodstained

Kids Definition

restrained

adjective

re·​strained ri-ˈstrānd 

: marked by restraint : showing careful control

restrainedly

-ˈstrā-nəd-lē 

adverb