adj
Common
reserved
rih-ZURVD
Reserved (adj) means Slow to show emotion or share opinions; quietly restrained in manner. Example: “Although she is quite reserved in meetings, her written ideas are bold and clear.”
adj
1
Slow to show emotion or share opinions; quietly restrained in manner.
"Although she is quite reserved in meetings, her written ideas are bold and clear."
"He seemed reserved at first, but opened up once he knew people."
"She gave a reserved nod instead of celebrating loudly."
2
Set aside or booked in advance for a particular person or purpose.
"We found a table with a reserved sign on it near the window."
"The front rows of the theatre were reserved for the school's visiting parents."
"That seat is reserved for the guest of honor."
How to use reserved
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither "held back for someone" (a reserved seat) or "emotionally guarded" (a reserved person).
Common pairings
reserved seating
a reserved personality
strictly reserved
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more reserved
- Superlative
- most reserved
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Although she is quite _____ in meetings, her written ideas are bold and clear.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for reserved
See all rhymes for reserved →Frequently asked questions
What does “reserved” mean?
The word “reserved” means slow to show emotion or share opinions; quietly restrained in manner. In plain terms, either "held back for someone" (a reserved seat) or "emotionally guarded" (a reserved person).
How do you pronounce “reserved”?
“Reserved” is pronounced rih-ZURVD (/ɹɪˈzɝvd/ in IPA).
How do you use “reserved” in a sentence?
Here is “reserved” used in a sentence: “He seemed reserved at first, but opened up once he knew people.”
What part of speech is “reserved”?
“Reserved” is an adjective.
Is “reserved” a common word?
“Reserved” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “reserved” have?
“Reserved” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: slow to show emotion or share opinions; quietly restrained in manner.
What is the difference between "reserved" and "shy"?
A "reserved" person chooses not to show emotion or share opinions readily, which can be a calm, deliberate manner. A "shy" person tends to feel nervous or awkward around others; reserved suggests restraint, while shy suggests anxiety.
What is the difference between "reserved" and "booked"?
In the sense of setting something aside in advance, "reserved" and "booked" overlap and both mean arranged ahead of time. "Reserved" is common for tables, seats, and rooms held for a person, while "booked" is often used for appointments, tickets, and travel.
When should you use "reserved" instead of "introverted"?
"Reserved" describes outward behaviour, meaning someone does not readily reveal their feelings, while "introverted" describes a personality that draws energy from solitude. A person can be introverted without being reserved, or reserved in one setting yet talkative in another.
Is "reserved" a negative word?
"Reserved" is generally neutral and can even be complimentary, suggesting composure and discretion rather than coldness. Context and tone decide whether it reads as dignified restraint or as distant and unapproachable.
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