uncommunicative

[ uhn-kuh-myoo-ni-kuh-tiv, -key-tiv ]

adjective

1. not inclined to talk or disclose information; reserved; taciturn.

   Synonyms: shy, retiring, withdrawn, reticent

uncommunicative

/ ˌʌnkəˈmjuːnɪkətɪv /

adjective

1. disinclined to talk or give information or opinions

Derived Forms

• ˌuncomˈmunicativeness, noun
• ˌuncomˈmunicatively, adverb

Other Words From

• uncom·muni·ca·tive·ly adverb
• uncom·muni·ca·tive·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of uncommunicative¹

First recorded in 1685–95; un- ¹ + communicative

Example Sentences

As excruciating as the experience of working with a workaholic boss or uncommunicative co-worker can be, the lessons we form and act on can ultimately make those memories less painful, said Claire Lew, CEO and founder of Canopy, a leadership improvement platform.

From Slate

In an editorial late last month, the students sharply condemned university President Minouche Shafik and said administrators have been uncommunicative except for “ominous late-night emails.”

From Seattle Times

However, two congressional aides pushed back on the idea that Boeing’s team is inexperienced or uncommunicative.

From Seattle Times

“I do feel that in a city that is known for being cold and uncommunicative, it was a very uniting project,” Lungwitz said.

From Seattle Times

Analyzing the aquatically loquacious may also give us clues about whether midbrain injuries in humans may be linked to a person being mute or uncommunicative, according to Bass.

From Salon