adjective
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of reticent
First recorded in 1825–35; from Latin reticent- (stem of reticēns ), present participle of reticēre “to be silent,” equivalent to re- “again, back” + -tic-, combining form of tacēre “to be silent” ( cf. tacit) + -ent- adjective suffix; see re-, -ent
Compare meaning
How does reticent compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:
Explanation
Reticent means either quiet or restrained. If you're reticent about your feelings, you like to keep them to yourself, and you're probably quiet in rowdy groups where everyone is talking over each other. The original meaning of reticent describes someone who doesn’t like to talk. Be careful in your context, however. Reticent can refer to someone who is restrained and formal, but it can also refer to someone who doesn’t want to draw attention to herself or who prefers seclusion to other people. Don’t confuse reticent with reluctant, which means unwilling.
Vocabulary lists containing reticent
The Vocabulary.com Top 1000
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Grade 12, List 1
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Dracula
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Self-imposing a 96-hour deadline to find a successor, Jarmond pivoted to Deshaun Foster, a reticent running backs coach who was beloved by players but short on experience.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 31, 2026
Many economists think there will be greater asset-price volatility with a more reticent Fed.
From MarketWatch ● Jul. 7, 2026
Michaels, both controlling and reticent, has never opened up like this, and Morrison has talked to hundreds of “SNL” cast members, writers, hosts and more.
From Salon ● Jul. 5, 2026
"She's been very reticent to work with me. She doesn't want to be perceived as my daughter taking advantage of her privilege."
From BBC ● Jun. 26, 2026
The reluctant bride was reticent when asked to say “I do. ”
From "Woe Is I" by Patricia T. O'Conner
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
