English vocabulary · C2
Taciturn
/ˈtæs.ə.tɝːn/ · adj.
A taciturn person speaks little by nature. Even with friends, they listen and give short answers rather than talk much.
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Example sentences
- The taciturn cook just nodded.
- Even at home, Jo stayed taciturn.
Word origin and roots
from Latin
- taciturnus — silent (from Latin)
Synonyms and nuances
- QUIET — make little sound (Little talking or noise)
- RESERVED — not openly show feelings (Keep feelings private)
- RETICENT — unwilling to say much (Hold words back)
Similar words
- quiet
- reserved
- reticent
Lesson notes
A taciturn person speaks little by nature. Even with friends, they listen and give short answers rather than talk much.
Related: quiet, reserved, reticent. Use taciturn when words are few.
The taciturn cook just nodded. Even at home, Jo stayed taciturn.
From Latin. taciturnus- means silent. Silent by nature, a taciturn friend just nods to say yes.