Silently Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐คซ
silently
[หsaษช.lษnt.li ]
Definition
in a quiet, subdued manner
Making little or no noise; without speaking or making noise. Carried out without speaking; not accompanied by speech or words. Done or performed in a discreet or unobtrusive manner.
Synonyms
mute, noiselessly, quietly, soundlessly, speechlessly.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| silently |
Used when someone or something does something without making any noise, often to avoid attracting attention.
|
| quietly |
Used to describe something done with minimal noise, typically to avoid disturbing others.
|
| noiselessly |
Describes actions that produce no sound at all, often used to emphasize complete silence.
|
| soundlessly |
Used to describe a complete absence of sound, similar to 'noiselessly', but can be more literary.
|
| speechlessly |
Describes someone being unable to speak, often due to shock or strong emotions.
|
| mute |
Refers to the state of being unable to speak, often used as an adjective or a verb related to turning off sound.
|
Examples of usage
- She sat silently in the corner, lost in her own thoughts.
- The ninja moved silently through the shadows, undetected by the guards.
- They exchanged glances and then nodded silently, understanding each other without words.
- The librarian silently shelved the books, careful not to disturb the readers.
- The sun rose silently over the horizon, painting the sky in hues of pink and orange.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In many literary works, silence plays a crucial role in tension-building, often preceding a major event.
- Authors often use silence in dialogue to convey unspoken feelings between characters, creating depth without words.
- Famous quotes like 'Silence speaks louder than words' emphasize the power of unexpressed thoughts and emotions.
Science
- Studies suggest that silence can reduce stress and anxiety levels, promoting mental well-being.
- In the animal kingdom, some species use silence as a strategy to avoid detection from predators or while hunting.
- Research shows that moments of silence can enhance creativity and problem-solving by allowing thoughts to settle.
Cultural Practices
- In many cultures, silent meditation is practiced to foster mindfulness and inner peace.
- Some religious traditions incorporate silence as a form of communicating with the divine during prayer or reflection.
- Ceremonies often include moments of silence to honor those who have passed, showing respect through quiet reflection.
Psychology
- Silence can facilitate deeper listening in conversations, allowing for more meaningful exchanges.
- Psychological studies indicate that people often misinterpret silence in communication, leading to misunderstandings.
- Silence is sometimes perceived as uncomfortable, prompting individuals to fill it with chatter, known as 'the silence effect' in social psychology.
Origin of 'silently'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'silently' comes from the Latin word 'silentium', meaning 'silence'.
- It is formed from the word 'silent', which has been used in English since the 14th century.
- The suffix '-ly' indicates the manner of doing something, transforming 'silent' (quiet) into 'silently' (in a quiet way).
The word 'silently' is derived from the Middle English word 'silentli', which comes from the Old English 'sฤซlentlฤซce'. The concept of silence has been valued in various cultures throughout history, often associated with contemplation, meditation, and respect. Being able to act or move silently has been a skill appreciated in stealth, espionage, and peaceful environments alike.