reserved

adjective

re·​served ri-ˈzərvd 

1

: restrained in words and actions

2

: kept or set apart or aside for future or special use

reservedly

ri-ˈzər-vəd-lē 

adverb

reservedness

ri-ˈzər-vəd-nəs 

noun

Synonyms

• closemouthed
• dumb
• laconic
• reticent
• silent
• taciturn
• tight-lipped
• uncommunicative

Choose the Right Synonym for reserved

silent, taciturn, reticent, reserved, secretive mean showing restraint in speaking.

silent implies a habit of saying no more than is needed.

the strong, silent type

taciturn implies a temperamental disinclination to speech and usually connotes unsociability.

taciturn villagers

reticent implies a reluctance to speak out or at length, especially about one's own affairs.

was reticent about his plans

reserved implies reticence and suggests the restraining influence of caution or formality in checking easy informal conversational exchange.

greetings were brief, formal, and reserved

secretive, too, implies reticence but usually carries a suggestion of deviousness and lack of frankness or of an often ostentatious will to conceal.

the secretive research and development division

Examples of reserved in a Sentence

She is a very reserved young woman.

The front row is reserved for faculty.

Recent Examples on the Web

This isn’t just due to Donald Trump’s enthusiastic endorsements or Kamala Harris’s reserved nod to the industry. —Marie Poteriaieva, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024

After the plea, Huey, wearing a brown suit, made a short, reserved statement. —Justin Curto, Vulture, 4 Nov. 2024

Cook and stir shallots and garlic in reserved drippings until translucent, 2 to 3 minutes. —Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Nov. 2024

The interior is more reserved and a study in lowkey luxury. —Doug Newcomb, PCMAG, 7 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1601, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing reserved

• reserved power

Kids Definition

reserved

adjective

re·​served ri-ˈzərvd 

1

: cautious in words and actions

a reserved young man

2

: kept or set apart or aside for future or special use

a reserved table

reservedly

-ˈzər-vəd-lē 

adverb

reservedness

-ˈzər-vəd-nəs

noun