# mannered

/ˈmænɝd/ (US) · /mˈænəd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/mannered
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- 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 notes

- Typically used as a critical or evaluative term; often appears before the noun it modifies.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.