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    Motus (en. Mum's the word)

    /mɔ.tys/

    Meaning & Definition

    EnglishFrench
    noun
    State of silence or reserve in a given situation.
    In the meeting, there was a silence on sensitive topics.
    En réunion, il y avait un motus sur les sujets sensibles.
    Instruction not to speak on a subject.
    The silence requested by the director was respected.
    Le motus demandé par le directeur a été respecté.

    Etymology

    Comes from the Latin 'motus', meaning movement, in reference to the act of not speaking.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    motus and gum ball
    This is an expression that evokes absolute silence or an undisclosed matter.
    motus et boule de gomme
    to stay mute
    Means to remain silent or to keep information secret.
    rester motus

    Related Words

    silence
    Absence of sound, calm.
    silence
    reserve
    Reticence in expressing one's feelings or opinions.
    réserve
    discretion
    Ability to keep secrets or to act with caution.
    discrétion

    Slang Meanings

    To be vague, not wanting to say something.
    He put a silence on this matter.
    Il a mis un motus sur cette affaire.
    Keep the secret to yourself.
    We will remain silent on this project until the announcement.
    On reste motus sur ce projet jusqu'à l'annonce.