WordGarden.iounreserved
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˌʌnrɪsˈɜːvd/
US
Meanings
Adjective
open, frank, and not restrained in speaking or manner
complete, wholehearted, or without qualification
not set aside, booked, or assigned for a particular person or use
Beyond the definition
Imagine a friend who tells you exactly what they think, even when the truth is hard to say. That's what unreserved often means. It describes someone who is completely open and honest, holding nothing back. An unreserved person does not hide their thoughts or feelings; they express themselves freely. You might also hear about an unreserved apology, which means it is full, sincere, and without excuses. Sometimes, unreserved can describe something that is not booked or claimed, like unreserved seating on a train where anyone can sit anywhere.
Think of it as removing all the locks and barriers to your thoughts and feelings. It's about genuine expression, whether in speech, emotion, or availability.
The word "unreserved" describes something that is completely open, honest, and without any limitations or qualifications. It can apply to a person's character, their expressions, or even the availability of something.
When describing someone as unreserved, it means they are frank, candid, and don't hold back their thoughts or feelings. They speak openly and honestly, even if it might be uncomfortable. For example: "She gave an unreserved account of what happened," meaning she told the whole truth without omitting any details. Or, "He offered his unreserved support," indicating complete and enthusiastic backing.
However, unreserved isn't always about personality. It can also describe something that is not yet claimed or booked. Think of "unreserved seating" on a train—it means anyone can sit in those seats without needing a reservation. A hotel might have unreserved parking spaces available for guests.
Historically, the word comes from the idea of having "no reservations"—meaning no hidden doubts or conditions. This sense of openness and lack of constraint is at the heart of what "unreserved" means today.
So, whether it's a person's honest nature, enthusiastic support, or simply an available space—unreserved signifies a complete lack of restriction or hesitation. It's about being fully open and accessible, without holding anything back.
Examples
- 1
Corporate apology
The company issued an unreserved apology to its customers after the mistake.
- 2
Strong support
She gave the proposal her unreserved support.
- 3
Film review
The reviewers were unreserved in their praise of the film.
- Patternunreserved in + praise/support
showing it very strongly and openly
- 4
Honest concerns
Once the meeting ended, he was more unreserved about his concerns.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Seating
These are unreserved seats, so you can sit anywhere in this section.
- Phraseunreserved seats
seats that are not kept for particular people
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- unreserved manner
- unreserved candor
- unreservedly honest
Word family
- unreservedly
- unreservedness
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- unreservedadjective