reticence

noun

ret·​i·​cence ˈre-tə-sən(t)s How to pronounce reticence (audio)
1
: the quality or state of being reticent : reserve, restraint
2
: an instance of being reticent
3

Examples of reticence in a Sentence

the publisher's reticence to make content available online for free
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The latter could very well be the case, but his reticence is notable nevertheless. Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 3 Mar. 2025 China’s reticence to serve as the standard-bearer for Pyongyang is not new. Sergey Radchenko, Foreign Affairs, 18 Feb. 2025 The Giants were not alone last offseason in their reticence to offer a running back a long-term, lucrative contract. Andrew Greif, NBC News, 7 Feb. 2025 Fisher expressed reticence to discuss the investigation, opting to not mention Miller by name. Matt Rybaltowski, Forbes, 25 Nov. 2024 See All Example Sentences for reticence

Word History

First Known Use

1603, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of reticence was in 1603

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Cite this Entry

“Reticence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reticence. Accessed 13 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

reticence

noun
ret·​i·​cence ˈret-ə-sən(t)s How to pronounce reticence (audio)
1
: the quality or state of being reticent
a witness's reticence that was unhelpful to police
2
: an instance of being reticent
3

More from Merriam-Webster on reticence

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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