Reserved

Part of speech: adjective

Pronunciation: /ɹɪˈzɝvd/

Definitions

1. Marked by self-restraint or limited expression of feelings or opinions ; referring to an individual who tends to be quiet or introverted in social settings ; pertaining to something kept aside or designated for a future or particular use
2. Exhibiting a restrained or modest nature in behavior and speech ; describing a person who does not readily share personal information or emotions ; relating to an area or resource allocated exclusively for a planned event or individual
3. Characterized by a tendency to hold back feelings or thoughts ; describing someone who prefers solitude or minimal social interaction ; indicating a part or item set apart for a specific purpose or later use

Etymology: The adjective "reserved" is the past participle of the verb "reserve", so its story is really the story of the verb. That verb came into English from Old French "reserver", which in turn descends from the Latin "reservō", meaning "to keep back" or "to retain". The Latin root combines "re-", "back", with "servō", "to keep, preserve, save", so at its core the idea is of holding something aside rather than letting it go. The sense of "quiet and self-controlled" grows naturally from that idea. A person who is reserved keeps their feelings and opinions back instead of displaying them freely. The same notion of holding something in store also gives us the older meaning of setting something apart for a particular person or purpose, as in a seat or table kept back for guests.

Synonyms: reticent, withdrawn, aloof, shy, modest

Antonyms: outgoing, extroverted, open, friendly, communicative