reticence

noun

ret·​i·​cence ˈre-tə-sən(t)s 

1

: the quality or state of being reticent : reserve, restraint

2

: an instance of being reticent

3

: reluctance sense 1

Synonyms

• disinclination
• hesitance
• hesitancy
• reluctance
• unwillingness

Examples of reticence in a Sentence

the publisher's reticence to make content available online for free

Recent Examples on the Web

Arsenal’s reticence to spend on development players is understandable — particularly in the case of last January, when there was also an urgent need for a first-team centre-forward. —James McNicholas, New York Times, 6 June 2025

Given Moscow’s reticence over peace talks, momentum seems to be growing for taking a more aggressive posture backing sanctions. —Emily Brooks, The Hill, 28 May 2025

Heath Ledger, speaking in a muffled drawl, showed you that a performance could be repressed and transcendent at the same time; his reticence broke your heart. —Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 21 May 2025

So her reticence starts out appropriate, but when the dynamics escalate between Annie and Jon, Beatty remains much the same: on guard, with tight shoulders and wide eyes. —Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 20 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1603, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

reticence

noun

ret·​i·​cence ˈret-ə-sən(t)s 

1

: the quality or state of being reticent

a witness's reticence that was unhelpful to police

2

: an instance of being reticent

3

: reluctance