reserved
ri-ZURVD
/rɪˈzɜːrvd/
Slow to reveal emotions or opinions; quiet and self-restrained in social interactions.
Implies a controlled, polite self-restraint rather than hostility or anxiety.
The story behind the word. From Latin reservare, meaning 'to keep back' or 'hold in reserve'. Just as a saved resource is kept in store for later, a reserved person holds back their feelings and words until they feel it is appropriate to share them.
Word relationships
- restrained: Focuses on active self-control over emotional expression.
- uncommunicative: Implies an unwillingness to talk, sometimes with a slightly negative tone.
- outgoing: Friendly, expressive, and energized by social interaction.
- demonstrative: Freely showing feelings and affection.
Commonly confused with
- aloof: Aloof implies emotional coldness or superiority, whereas reserved simply implies restraint and privacy.
Word family
- reserve (noun): Self-restraint in expression or freedom.
- unreservedly (adverb): Without restraint or complete openness.
Collocations
- reserved demeanor
- reserved nature
- quietly reserved
- remain reserved
Idioms & expressions
- keep one's cards close to one's chest
Example sentences
- "Despite the high pressure of the negotiation, she remained reserved, revealing nothing about her strategy." Describing a calm leader
- "He was a reserved man who kept his private life strictly separate from his public duties." Literary character observation
Memory hook
Think of a 'RESERVED' seat at a restaurant—held back and set aside from the public crowd. Held back like a reserved table.
When not to use
Do not use to describe someone who is actively rude or intentionally ignoring people out of superiority.
Fun facts
- In British English, 'reserved' is often viewed as a national cultural trait of polite decorum rather than shy awkwardness.
Explore more words
demure, withdrawn, aloof, diffident, forbearing, unassertive
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