Silence: meaning, definitions and examples
๐คซ
silence
[หsaษชlษns ]
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.
|
| 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.
|
| stillness |
Use when referring to the complete absence of movement and sound, often creating a serene or eerie atmosphere.
|
| 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.
|
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.
|
| 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.
|
| 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.
|
Examples of usage
- The teacher silenced the students by raising his hand.
- He silenced her with a stern look.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- 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.
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.
Translations
Translations of the word "silence" in other languages:
๐ต๐น silรชncio
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเฅเคชเฅเคชเฅ
๐ฉ๐ช Stille
๐ฎ๐ฉ keheningan
๐บ๐ฆ ัะธัะฐ
๐ต๐ฑ cisza
๐ฏ๐ต ้ๅฏ (ใใใใใ)
๐ซ๐ท silence
๐ช๐ธ silencio
๐น๐ท sessizlik
๐ฐ๐ท ์นจ๋ฌต (์นจ๋ฌต)
๐ธ๐ฆ ุตู ุช
๐จ๐ฟ ticho
๐ธ๐ฐ ticho
๐จ๐ณ ๆฒ้ป (chรฉnmรฒ)
๐ธ๐ฎ tiลกina
๐ฎ๐ธ รพรถgn
๐ฐ๐ฟ ััะฝััััา
๐ฌ๐ช แกแแฉแฃแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ sรผkut
๐ฒ๐ฝ silencio