taciturn
UK: ˈtæsɪtɜːn | US: ˈtæsɪtɜːrn
adj. habitually silent or reserved in speech
adj. inclined to speak very little; uncommunicative
taciturn = tacit<silent> + urn<adjective suffix>
- tacit (from Latin tacitus, meaning "silent, unspoken")
- urn (a suffix derived from Latin -urnus, often forming adjectives)
Etymology Origin:
The word "taciturn" traces back to the Latin taciturnus, meaning "silent" or "reserved." The root tacit (from tacere, "to be silent") reflects the core idea of silence, while the suffix -urn was used in Latin to form adjectives. Over time, "taciturn" evolved in English to describe someone who speaks very little, emphasizing a natural or habitual quietness. The word's structure preserves the original Latin logic, combining silence (tacit) with a descriptive ending (-urn).
The taciturn old man rarely spoke to his neighbors.
Her taciturn demeanor made it difficult to know her true feelings.
Despite his taciturn nature, he was a thoughtful listener.
The detective’s taciturn responses frustrated the reporters.
In meetings, she remained taciturn unless directly addressed.