Reticent - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Reticent means unwilling to speak freely or share one’s thoughts, often due to shyness or reserve. It describes someone who is quiet or restrained in expressing themselves.
Definition:
Reserved, unwilling to speak freely or reveal feelings.
Synonyms:
taciturn, reserved, uncommunicative, guarded
Part of Speech:
adjective
Antonyms:
talkative, outgoing, expressive
Common Collocations:
reticent person, reticent about, remain reticent, unusually reticent
Derivatives:
reticence, reticently
Usage Tips:
Use "reticent" to describe someone hesitant to share thoughts or emotions, not just shyness.
Common Phrases:
tight-lipped and reticent, reticent to speak, break one's reticence
Etymology:
From Latin *reticēre* ("to keep silent"), from *re-* + *tacēre* ("to be silent").
Examples:
- 1. She was reticent about her past experiences.
- 2. The usually chatty boy grew reticent in the interview.
- 3. He remained reticent despite their persistent questioning.
- 4. Her reticent demeanor made her hard to read.