mannered
adj. C1 Advanced US //ˈmænɝd// UK //mˈænəd// man·nered
adj. describing someone who acts in a way that is not natural or simple. You use this when someone's behavior or art feels forced or too formal to be real.
adj. characterised by artificiality, affectation, or an excessive adherence to a particular style. Often describes artistic works or social behaviors that feel self-conscious rather than spontaneous.
The actor gave a very mannered performance.
Her writing style is somewhat mannered, filled with old-fashioned words and overly complex sentences.
Critics dismissed the director's latest film as a mannered exercise in style over substance, noting that the characters felt like puppets rather than people.
Usage
Typically used as a critical or evaluative term; often appears before the noun it modifies.