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.
The statement, written by lawmakers who are typically more restrained in their comments given their sensitive roles on security issues, contained some of the party’s most pointed criticism yet of Mr. Trump and Mr. Musk just hours before the president was to address a joint session of Congress. Carl Hulse, New York Times, 5 Mar. 2025 His restrained direction keeps the brothers in check and underpowered. Charles McNulty, Los Angeles Times, 5 Mar. 2025 Listen to this article A San Diego County sheriff’s deputy was charged with using excessive force on a restrained inmate, causing a serious spinal injury that required surgery, and later attempting to cover up the incident, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced Friday. Christian Martinez, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 Jan. 2025 The shows, as a result, have seen fewer headline-grabbing appearances from celebrities than usual, while those guests in attendance seemed more restrained, offering fewer of the viral soundbites that magazine editors like to chase before the house lights dim. Daniel Rodgers, Vogue, 24 Jan. 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 17 Mar. 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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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