Meaning & Definition of word "Reticence"

Reticence

/ˈrɛtɪsəns/

1. The quality of being reserved or being reluctant to speak freely; a tendency to keep one's thoughts and feelings to oneself.
- Example: Her reticence at the meeting was noted by her colleagues, who wondered what she was really thinking.
2. The state of being silent or secretive; silence.
- Example: Despite his reticence, he was the most knowledgeable person in the room about the subject.
3. A refusal to speak or to divulge information.
- Example: The witness's reticence made the investigation much more challenging for the detectives.

From Latin 'reticentem', meaning 'keeping silent'.

reticence to speak:

a tendency to be quiet and not express thoughts

showing reticence:

displaying reluctance to engage in conversation

reticence in expression:

limiting verbal communication or emotional sharing

reticent:

reserved or restrained in communication

reticently:

in a manner that shows reluctance to speak

taciturn:

habitually silent or quiet

Meaning: keeping it to oneself

Example Sentence: When asked about her plans, she just shrugged, showing her reticence.

Meaning: playing it cool

Example Sentence: He's mostly reticent at parties, just playing it cool instead of mingling.