Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Characterized by self-restraint and reticence in manner or speech: Describes a person who is not openly expressive, tending to keep feelings, thoughts, or opinions private.
   • Set aside for a specific purpose or person: Describes something, like a seat or area, that is kept or booked for exclusive use.

Examples

• Adjective (Reticent):
  • She is a very reserved person and rarely shares her personal life with colleagues.
  • His reserved nature made it difficult to know what he was really thinking.
• Adjective (Set Aside):
  • We have a reserved table under the name "Smith".
  • This parking space is reserved for visitors.

Advanced Usage

• "to be reserved about/on something": to be unwilling to discuss or reveal details about a particular topic.
  • The CEO was reserved about the company's future financial projections.
• "reserved rights/powers": rights or powers that are specifically kept or retained.
  • The treaty reserved certain fishing rights for the indigenous population.

Variants and Related Words

• Reserve (verb/noun): To keep back or set aside for future use; a supply of something kept for future use.
  • The manager decided to reserve judgment until all facts were known. (verb)
  • The country has large gold reserves. (noun)
• Reservedly (adverb): In a reserved manner.
  • He nodded reservedly, offering no further comment.

Synonyms

• Reticent: Inclined to be silent or uncommunicative.
• Aloof: Not friendly or forthcoming; distant.
• Booked/Pre-booked: Having been arranged or scheduled in advance (for the "set aside" meaning).

Antonyms

• Outgoing: Friendly and socially confident.
• Unreserved: Open and frank in expression; not set aside for anyone.

Related Phrases

• Reserve one's strength/energy: To conserve one's energy for later.
  • The marathon runner reserved her strength for the final kilometers.
• Reserve the right to do something: To formally retain the option or authority to take a future action.
  • The company reserves the right to refuse service.

Adjective

1. marked by self-restraint and reticence
   • was habitually reserved in speech, withholding her opinion-Victoria Sackville-West
2. set aside for the use of a particular person or party