taciturnity

[tas-i-tur-ni-tee]

noun

1. the state or quality of being reserved or reticent in conversation.

2. Scots Law.,  the relinquishing of a legal right through an unduly long delay, as by the silence of the creditor.

Word History and Origins

Origin of taciturnity¹

1400–50; late Middle English < Latin taciturnitās, equivalent to taciturn ( us ) taciturn + -itās -ity

Example Sentences

Adams said that Washington had “the gift of taciturnity,” meaning he had an instinct for the eloquent silence.

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Wilder’s taciturnity won’t affect some fans’ excitement for the conclusion to one of the most entertaining trilogies in recent heavyweight boxing history.

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Once he is back on the bench, will Justice Thomas revert to his usual taciturnity?

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What set him apart, aside from his keen intellect, taciturnity and gifts as a writer, was his ferocious loyalty.

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The same Catholic conviction could explain Mr Fillon's famous taciturnity, a refusal to be ruffled, that can come across as either old-world courtesy or a cold reluctance to engage.

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