restrained

1 of 2

adjective

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

restrained

2 of 2

past tense and past participle of restrain

Synonyms of restrained

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Adjective

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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.
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Adjective
Her perspective—consistently serene and largely without self-interest—lends the novel a restrained and gently contemplative tone. — Natasha O'Neill, Vanity Fair, 22 Oct. 2026 The hotel interprets this mantra through balanced proportions, restrained interiors, and a hospitality approach that favors comfort over excess. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Oct. 2026 Paltrow has described her own approach as more restrained, with dry-brushing before heat and a 20-minute warm bath soak most evenings. — Samantha Agate, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 20 Oct. 2026 Clean silhouettes, restrained colors and familiar wardrobe staples provided the foundation, with distinction coming through cut, proportion, materials and construction. — Yiling Pan, Vogue, 20 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for restrained

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

14th century, in the meaning defined above

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

Rhymes for restrained

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Browse Nearby Words

restrainably
restrained
restrained beam
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Cite this Entry

“Restrained.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/restrained. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

restrained

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