Silence Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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silence
[ˈsaɪləns ]
Definitions
in a room
Complete absence of sound; quietness.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| silence |
Use when referring to the complete absence of sound, often in a more formal or profound sense. Suitable for both literal and metaphorical uses.
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| quiet |
Use when referring to a low level of noise or sound, often in a calming or peaceful setting. Can describe places, people, or times.
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| stillness |
Use when referring to the complete absence of movement and sound, often creating a serene or eerie atmosphere.
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| hush |
Use when referring to a sudden, brief period of quiet often induced by a request or command. It carries a sense of urgency or anticipation.
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Examples of usage
- The silence in the room was deafening.
- They sat in silence, lost in their own thoughts.
someone
Cause to become silent; prohibit or prevent from speaking.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| silence |
This is a repetition of the first entry. Refer to the first 'silence' entry for context and examples. |
| quieten |
This verb is used to indicate making someone or something quieter. It is slightly more formal and often implies a gradual process.
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| hush |
This term is often used when asking someone to be quiet for a period of time. It is gentler and often used with children.
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| shut up |
This phrase is considered informal and rude. It is used when commanding someone to stop talking immediately and is generally perceived as impolite.
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Examples of usage
- The teacher silenced the students by raising his hand.
- He silenced her with a stern look.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Studies show that silence can help reduce stress and improve mental clarity.
- Quiet environments have been found to foster creativity and problem-solving skills.
- Being in silence allows individuals to engage in self-reflection, leading to a greater understanding of oneself.
Pop Culture
- Silence is often a theme in songs and movies, symbolizing loneliness or peace.
- Famous quotes like 'Silence is golden' highlight the value placed on quietness in society.
- The 'Silence of the Lambs' is a well-known film that integrates the idea of silence into its suspenseful narrative.
Philosophy
- Many philosophies, including Buddhism, emphasize the importance of silence for spiritual growth.
- Philosophers have debated the nature of silence, questioning whether it is merely an absence of sound or something more profound.
- Silence is often viewed as a powerful tool in communication, allowing for deeper understanding.
Nature
- In nature, silence can be a sign of wildlife conservation, indicating a balanced ecosystem.
- Certain places, like national parks, promote silence as a way to experience the beauty of the natural world.
- Many animals use silence as a survival tactic, either to avoid predators or to listen for potential threats.
Origin of 'silence'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'silentium', which means 'quietness' or 'rest'.
- It evolved through Old French before becoming part of Middle English in the 14th century.
- The concept has been present in many languages, showing the universal need for quiet times.
The word 'silence' originated from the Latin word 'silentium', which means 'a being silent'. The concept of silence has been valued in various cultures and religions throughout history. In many traditions, silence is associated with inner peace, meditation, and contemplation. Silence is also often used as a form of protest or resistance against oppression and injustice.