reticence
UK[ˈret.ɪ.səns]US[ˈret̬.ə.səns]
n
The quality of not revealing one's thoughts or feelings readily; reserve in speech.
Morpheme Breakdown
retic
ence
retic
silent
ence
noun suffix
Etymology
The word 'reticence' originates from the Latin verb reticēre, which means 'to keep silent'. This verb itself is a compound of the intensive prefix re- and tacēre, a foundational Latin verb meaning 'to be silent'. The suffix -entia, denoting a state or quality, was added to form the noun reticentia, describing the condition of silence or reserve. Over time, this literal meaning of 'keeping silent' evolved into the modern, more abstract sense of a restrained reluctance to speak one's mind, capturing the nuanced quality of deliberate verbal reserve.
Analysis
Structure: retic (silent) + ence (noun suffix)
- retic: From Latin reticēre, meaning 'to keep silent', from re- (expressing intensive force) + tacēre (to be silent).
- ence: A noun-forming suffix of Latin origin (-entia), indicating a state, quality, or condition.
Examples
Her natural reticence made it difficult for her to speak in large groups.
He broke his usual reticence and shared his concerns about the project.
There was a noticeable reticence among the committee members to discuss the financial details.