restrained

[ri-streynd]

adjective

1. characterized by restraint.

   The actor gave a restrained performance.

Other Word Forms

• restrainedly adverb
• nonrestrained adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of restrained¹

First recorded in 1570–80; restrain + -ed ²

Example Sentences

He would have probably been more restrained and uptight if it hadn't been Levy asking the questions.

From BBC

A new building in London for the Home Office was unusually restrained.

From BBC

Lowry had to be restrained from confronting a fan on the 10th tee.

From BBC

"Israel will not be restrained unless there are serious punitive acts."

From BBC

Yet the Kremlin's initial response to all of this has been rather restrained.

From BBC

Related Words

• discreet 
• laid-back 
• mild 
• muted 
• reasonable 
• reticent 
• subdued 
• tasteful 
• unobtrusive