restrained

1 of 2

adjective

re·​strained ri-ˈstrānd 

: marked by restraint : not excessive or extravagant

restrainedly

ri-ˈstrā-nəd-lē 

adverb

restrained

2 of 2

past tense and past participle of restrain

Synonyms of restrained

Adjective

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

Examples of restrained in a Sentence

Adjective

She was admired for her restrained behavior.

a restrained style of architecture

The room was decorated with restrained colors.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

The sheer black fabric included embroidered botanical elements, adding a touch of whimsy to the restrained look. — Julia Teti, Footwear News, 15 Oct. 2026

Either way, Rahimi balances the character’s clear vulnerability with just enough ambiguity about his plans for the school, accentuated through Majidi’s restrained and naturalistic approach. — Kambole Campbell, Variety, 11 Oct. 2026

While the look nods to Carolyn Bessette Kennedy with its restrained elegance, the final product is decidedly Giulia’s own. — Alexandra MacOn, Vogue, 10 Oct. 2026

No two rooms are exactly alike, although all make use of a similar restrained coastal aesthetic of blues, grays, and whites. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 8 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

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