adjective
sober
Serious or restrained rather than lively or showy.
Her sober expression shows how seriously she takes the news.
Etymology
Latin sobrius means sober or moderate. Beyond freedom from drunkenness, the word came to describe a restrained, serious manner or appearance.
More examples
- He chooses a sober gray suit for the ceremony.
- The report offers a sober assessment of the risks.
- The room's sober decor contrasts with the bright garden outside.
Forms
sober · soberer · soberest
soberly adverb — In a serious or restrained manner.
Similar words
- serious
- Emphasizes earnestness or importance rather than restraint in appearance.
- restrained
- Emphasizes controlled expression or style without necessarily implying solemnity.
- subdued
- Emphasizes quietness or softened intensity rather than thoughtful seriousness.