VocabDictionary

reserved

/rɪˈzɜːrvd/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Slow to reveal emotion or opinions; reticent and cautious in behavior.

Example Sentences:
  • He is a quiet, reserved man who rarely speaks up in large meetings.
  • Despite her warm smile, she remained somewhat reserved around new people.
2.adjective

Kept for a particular person or purpose; booked or set aside.

Example Sentences:
  • These front-row seats are reserved for special guests.
  • Do you have a table reserved for dinner tonight?
Share & Learn With Friends

Share “reserved” with study groups, classmates, or on your social channels.

English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “reserved”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the verb 'reserve', coming from Old French 'reserver' (to keep back, save), from Latin 'reservare' (re- 'back' + servare 'to keep, save'). The psychological and behavioral sense of being restrained or reticent developed in the 17th century from the notion of keeping one's thoughts and feelings 'kept back' or withheld from others.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of someone who has a seat *reserved* just for themselves—they tend to sit quietly alone, keeping to themselves rather than mingling.

Frequently Asked Questions About “reserved

1. What is the meaning of “reserved” in English?

In English, reserved (adjective) is defined as: “Slow to reveal emotion or opinions; reticent and cautious in behavior.”.

2. How do you use “reserved” in a sentence?

He is a quiet, reserved man who rarely speaks up in large meetings.

3. What are English synonyms of “reserved”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “reserved”?

Derived from the verb 'reserve', coming from Old French 'reserver' (to keep back, save), from Latin 'reservare' (re- 'back' + servare 'to keep, save'). The psychological and behavioral sense of being restrained or reticent developed in the 17th century from the notion of keeping one's thoughts and feelings 'kept back' or withheld from others.