repressed

adjective

re·​pressed ri-ˈprest 

1

: subjected to or marked by repression

2

: characterized by restraint

Synonyms

• conservative
• low-key
• low-keyed
• muted
• quiet
• restrained
• sober
• subdued
• toned-down
• understated
• unflashy
• unpretentious

Examples of repressed in a Sentence

a 19th-century church in the repressed style favored by the strict religious sect

Recent Examples on the Web

Cold Water’s draw is therefore palpable, with Lincoln playing a repressed man who moves to a Scottish village and strikes up a relationship with an enigmatic neighbor, played by the always brilliant Ewen Bremner. —Max Goldbart, Deadline, 29 Dec. 2024

During Assad's rule, dissent and criticism of authorities were severely repressed and extremely dangerous, if not fatal. —Raja Krishnamoorthi, Newsweek, 15 Dec. 2024

As Jana gets drawn into Maria’s mysterious death, she is forced to confront her own repressed memories from her upbringing. —Annika Pham, Variety, 21 Oct. 2024

While hosting the latest episode of his children’s series ‘Monkey’s Magic Merry Go Round,’ his repressed memories begin to emerge, threatening his sanity, and possibly his life. —Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 15 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1606, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

repressed

adjective

re·​pressed ri-ˈprest 

1

: subjected to or marked by repression

a repressed child

2

: characterized by a keeping in check

Medical Definition

repressed

adjective

re·​pressed ri-ˈprest 

: subjected to or marked by repression

a repressed child

repressed anger