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Definitions

in check

ADJECTIVE
restrained
Synonyms
STRONGEST
discreet laid-back mild muted reasonable reticent subdued tasteful unobtrusive
STRONG
chilled controlled cool moderate plain retiring shrinking steady withdrawn
WEAK
bottled-up calm and collected conservative corked up in charge inobtrusive on a leash self-controlled soft temperate unaffable undemonstrative under control under wraps unexcessive unexpansive unextreme uptight
Antonyms
STRONGEST
communicative
STRONG
extroverted friendly outgoing
WEAK
assured bold confident

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Recognizing this, some oncologists have begun administering drugs with restraint rather than abandon, aiming to keep the cancer in check rather than creating conditions that predispose to the rapid growth of resistant cells.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 20, 2026

Scotland's Robert MacIntyre insists he is not fazed by criticism of his behaviour at the Masters, but says he is working to keep his emotions in check.

From BBC • Apr. 17, 2026

Rising mortgage rates and persistent supply-chain constraints have kept valuations in check.

From Barron's • Apr. 6, 2026

The bottom line: Keep your pessimism in check.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 6, 2026

A fat red-faced man in check breeches and gaiters, who looked like a publican, was stroking her nose and feeding her with sugar.

From "Animal Farm: A Fairy Story" by George Orwell