reticence

American  

[ret-uh-suhns] / ˈrɛt ə səns /

Sometimes reticency

noun

1. 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.

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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. ); see reticent ( def. )

Explanation

Reticence is a kind of reserve, wanting to avoid communication and not wanting to offer any more information than is necessary. Reticence is a noun originating from the Latin word reticent, meaning “remaining silent.” Someone charged with a crime might be instructed by their lawyer to show reticence when being questioned by police. As a child, reticence saved you from getting in trouble when mom asked who ate all the cookies from the jar.

Example Sentences

Yun Sun, director of the China program of the Washington-based Stimson Center, said China's reticence was out of character and suspected Iran may have strategically tried to emphasize Beijing's power of persuasion.

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026

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

From Salon • Feb. 23, 2026

“Investors’ reticence to owning technology stocks from earlier in the year is being reversed, and that’s in anticipation of future earnings,” said Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer at Northlight Asset Management.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 28, 2026

Less puzzling is the reticence of our allies.

From Slate • Jan. 20, 2026

Even that was supplied in some measure by the reticence of my fellow travelers.

From "The Left Hand of Darkness" by Ursula K. Le Guin

Related Words

• hesitation
• shyness