Well-read · Often misused · Character
Reticent: meaning, pronunciation and examples
Reticent adjective. Not inclined to share your thoughts or feelings; reserved.
How to say it
RET-ih-sunt/ˈrɛtɪs(ə)nt/
3 syllables, stressed on the first (RET).
Reticent in a sentence
He's reticent about his time in the army, and nobody pushes him.
The usually reticent striker gave a long and emotional interview.
Similar and opposite
Similar:
- reserved
- tight-lipped
- taciturn
- guarded
Opposite:
- forthcoming
- open
- talkative
Careful
Reticent means reluctant to speak, not reluctant in general. 'Reticent to invest' is a common slip for 'reluctant'; that use is spreading, but many readers still notice it.
Where reticent comes from
From Latin reticere, to keep silent, from tacere, to be silent.
Test yourself
Which word fills the gap?
The usually _____ striker gave a long and emotional interview.
- viable
- reticent
- pristine
Show the answer
reticent: The usually reticent striker gave a long and emotional interview.