Quiet Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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quiet
[ˈkwaɪət ]
Definitions
noise level
making little or no noise; free of noise or uproar
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| quiet |
Suitable for describing an environment with little noise, or a person who speaks softly or rarely.
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| silent |
Describes an absence of any sound, often used to indicate complete muteness or stillness.
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| calm |
Used to describe a situation or person's state of tranquility, free from stress or excitement.
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| peaceful |
Often implies a sense of serenity and low conflict, both in environment and mood.
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Examples of usage
- The library should be a quiet place for studying.
- The baby finally fell asleep in the quiet room.
personality trait
the quality of being quiet or silent
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| quiet |
Identical to the first 'quiet'; can be used interchangeably.
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| silence |
Use when there is an absence of sound or talking. It can also indicate a deliberate choice to not speak.
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| reserved |
Use when describing someone who does not show their feelings or thoughts easily.
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| reticence |
Use when talking about a reluctance to speak or express thoughts. It has a slightly formal or intellectual tone.
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Examples of usage
- Her quiet was often mistaken for shyness.
- I admired her quiet and calm demeanor.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Studies show that quiet environments can enhance focus and productivity, making it easier to think clearly.
- Research indicates that too much noise can lead to increased stress levels, which is why quiet spaces can feel calming.
- Silence can have profound effects on our mental health, often providing a moment for reflection and inner peace.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, quietness is associated with meditation and mindfulness, where silence helps people connect with themselves.
- Japanese tea ceremonies emphasize quietness to create a peaceful and reflective atmosphere.
- In Western traditions, quietness is often valued in libraries and places of worship, highlighting respect for thought and spirituality.
Sound Studies
- The study of acoustics examines how sound behaves in different environments, often noting that quiet spaces are essential for sound health.
- White noise can mask distracting sounds, helping people maintain a quiet atmosphere for work or relaxation.
- There is a trend of creating 'quiet zones' in public spaces to offer respite from urban noise.
Literature
- Many poets use quietness as a theme to explore feelings of solitude, peace, or introspection.
- Quiet moments in novels often serve as turning points, leading characters to important realizations.
- Classic literature often portrays quiet as a counterbalance to chaos, emphasizing the significance of peaceful settings.
Origin of 'quiet'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'quiet' comes from the Latin word 'quies', meaning rest or peace.
- In Old French, 'quiet' was 'cuit', which also related to 'calm' or 'peaceful'.
- The word has been used in English since the 14th century, describing being free from disturbance.
The word 'quiet' originated from the Latin word 'quietus' meaning 'at rest' or 'calm'. It entered the English language in the late 14th century, initially used to describe calmness or peacefulness. Over time, 'quiet' has come to represent both a lack of noise and a personality trait of being reserved or calm.
See also: disquiet, disquieted, disquieting, disquietingly, quieten, quietly, quietness.