Contrary to the other definition, reserved is a characteristic of a person whom socializes sparingly.
It is shown not out of inability to converse or
work with others, but instead permits them to be self-aware of whom, what, when, where, why and how they talk to people.
A reserved person may speak less in groups because they prefer to listen to what is being said, and who is saying it.
When they have formulated a contribution to a discussion, it's generally well thought out.
Reserved people garner the
respect of their peers and do not seek to offend intentionally.
As opposed to an anti-social or asocial person, reserved people DO know how to talk to their peers and delight in interaction, although very brief.
This is not to be conflated with "socially
awkward" or "socially
retarded", or even "shy"; all of which stem from social
anxiety, but hold some form of connection to being reserved.
A
vice-chair or CEO of a Fortune
500 company may be reserved, especially when speaking to the
media or to international clients.
