reticent
Reticent (adj) means unwilling to share thoughts, feelings, or information freely. Example: “He was reticent about his time in the army.”
How to use reticent
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishQuiet or guarded about sharing information — someone who holds back rather than speaking freely.
Don't confuse with "reluctant" (unwilling to act) — reticent is specifically about being reserved in speech or sharing information, though the two senses overlap in casual use.
Word forms
more reticent comparative, most reticent superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He was _____ about his time in the army.
Etymology
From Latin reticens, "keeping silent," from reticere ("to remain silent").
Synonyms
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Rhymes for reticent
See all rhymes for reticent →Frequently asked questions
What does “reticent” mean?
The word “reticent” means unwilling to share thoughts, feelings, or information freely. In plain terms, quiet or guarded about sharing information — someone who holds back rather than speaking freely.
How do you pronounce “reticent”?
“Reticent” is pronounced REH-tih-suhnt (/ˈɹɛtɪsənt/ in IPA).
How do you use “reticent” in a sentence?
Here is “reticent” used in a sentence: “He was reticent about his time in the army.”
What is another word for “reticent”?
Words with a similar meaning to “reticent” include reserved, restrained, tight-lipped, unwilling, closemouthed and disinclined.
What part of speech is “reticent”?
“Reticent” is an adjective.
Where does the word “reticent” come from?
The word “reticent” comes from Latin. From Latin reticens, "keeping silent," from reticere ("to remain silent").
How many meanings does “reticent” have?
“Reticent” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: unwilling to share thoughts, feelings, or information freely.
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