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

The Sydney penthouse, measuring in at just under 9,700 square feet, takes a restrained approach while still feeling sumptuous, thanks to interiors that pair custom pieces with luxe materials. — Tori Latham, Robb Report, 10 Aug. 2026

And unlike other chrome-laden options on the market, the Coaster 407 takes a far more restrained approach to its styling. — New Atlas, 9 Aug. 2026

Labor supply remains restrained, with participation rates near post-pandemic lows, EY-Parthenon economists Gregory Daco and Lydia Boussard wrote. — Alicia Wallace, CNN Money, 7 Aug. 2026

There’s a smooth clarity to most of these songs, which grants different textures and dimensions to even Lyseight’s most restrained beats. — Dylan Green, Pitchfork, 3 Aug. 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