reticence
|ret-i-cence|
B2
/ˈrɛtɪsəns/
reserved silence
Etymology
Etymology Information
'reticence' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'reticentia,' where 'reticere' meant 'to keep silent.'
Historical Evolution
'reticentia' transformed into the French word 'réticence,' and eventually became the modern English word 'reticence' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to keep silent,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'being reserved or restrained in speech.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the quality of being reserved or restrained in speech or expression.
Her reticence made it difficult to know what she was thinking.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35