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

"The result goes beyond a house extension, transforming the entire home and producing a lesson in restrained, inventive reuse," the judges said.

From BBC

Osaka has benefitted from a largely more restrained approach, wisely picking her moments to use her baseline power effectively, while trying to draw mistakes from her opponents.

From BBC

The girl then ran at a 14-year-old pupil with the knife and stabbed her before she was restrained by teacher Darrel Campbell.

From BBC

"This is a meeting that should have been conducted in a much more restrained way – minimalistic, without this level of respect."

From BBC

He had been physically restrained from getting involved in the altercation, but, unlike the other boys involved, he had not been suspended.

From BBC

Related Words

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