Reticent: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is best used when someone is quiet by choice or hesitant to share their thoughts or feelings. It usually implies a reluctance to speak rather than an inability.

• He was reticent to discuss his plans for the weekend.
• She remained reticent during the meeting, preferring to listen rather than contribute.

This word implies a person who is cautious about showing their emotions or expressing their thoughts, often due to shyness or a deliberate choice to keep a distance.

• At the party, he was reserved and didn't interact much with the other guests.
• She is reserved, never revealing too much about her personal life.

This word describes someone who is habitually silent or uncommunicative in speech. It often carries a negative connotation of being unfriendly or sullen.

• The taciturn old man rarely spoke to his neighbors.
• Her taciturn nature made it hard for people to approach her.

This is a general term to describe someone who does not make much noise or speak often. It can refer to a temporary state or a personality trait.

• The library was so quiet you could hear a pin drop.
• She is a quiet person, always lost in her own thoughts.

Use this word to describe someone who is reserved or reluctant to speak about their thoughts or feelings, often because they are not comfortable sharing them.

• He was reticent to discuss his childhood experiences.
• Mary remained reticent about the details of her recent project.

This word should be used to describe a complete lack of noise or someone who is not speaking at all, often temporarily in a specific situation.

• The room was silent as everyone waited for the announcement.
• He remained silent throughout the entire dinner.

This word is best used to describe a person who is more focused on their internal thoughts and feelings rather than seeking external stimulation. They prefer solitary activities or small groups over large gatherings.

• John is very introverted and enjoys spending his weekends reading or hiking alone.
• Introverted people often find energy in quiet environments.

Use this word when describing someone who feels awkward or uncomfortable in social situations, often avoiding interaction because of nervousness or timidity.

• She is shy and seldom speaks up in meetings.
• The shy child hid behind his mother when strangers approached.

Used when someone is reserved, quiet, and unwilling to share their thoughts or feelings.

• She was reticent about her personal life
• The new employee remained reticent during the meeting

Used when someone has a humble opinion of their achievements and capabilities, without boasting.

• Despite his success, he remained modest
• She achieved great things but always stayed modest

Applied to someone who is not arrogant, and behaves in a way that does not seek attention.

• The unassuming man quietly donated a large sum to charity
• She was an unassuming person who did not like to brag about her achievements

Used to describe someone who avoids drawing attention to themselves, often out of shyness or humility.

• He was self-effacing and preferred to let others shine
• Her self-effacing manner endeared her to her colleagues