Synonyms

reticence

American

[ret-uh-suhns] / ˈrɛt ə səns /

Sometimes reticency

noun

the state of being reticent, or reserved, especially with regard to speaking freely; restraint.

His natural reticence seemed to disappear under the influence of alcohol.

Other Word Forms

nonreticence noun

Etymology

Origin of reticence

First recorded in 1600–10; from French réticence, from Latin reticentia, equivalent to reticent-, stem of reticēns (present participle of reticēre “to be silent”) + -ia -y ³ ( def. ); reticent ( def. )

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.

But the solar industry now faces a reckoning from the loss of federal support, consumer reticence, and an increase in costs.

From Barron's • Feb. 28, 2026

Such baseless reticence only makes us more defiant and less inquisitive.

From Salon • Feb. 23, 2026

Over the years, many Catholics have wondered about the apparent contradiction between this open display of faith and the Gospel’s call for secrecy and public reticence in matters of religion.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 12, 2026

Less puzzling is the reticence of our allies.

From Slate • Jan. 20, 2026

The youth knew me and had no reticence in talking since he was sure I was “one of them” so to speak.

From "Black Like Me" by John Howard Griffin

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023