tight-lipped

adjective

ˈtīt-ˈlipt 

1

: having the lips closed tight (as in determination)

2

: reluctant to speak : taciturn

Synonyms of tight-lipped

• silent
• reserved
• dumb
• restrained

Examples of tight-lipped in a Sentence

the cabinet official is usually tight-lipped about her private life

Recent Examples on the Web

More than two weeks later, there have been no photo leaks, and most guests have remained tight-lipped after signing non-disclosure agreements. — Charlie Carballo, USA Today, 20 July 2026

Bahl is remaining tight-lipped about any news regarding that Paramount Pictures project, directed by Peter Berg, that might be revealed this weekend. — Jennifer Maas, Variety, 18 July 2026

The actor opened up about his previous romances with Kristen Stewart and FKA Twigs, but wanted to remain tight-lipped about Waterhouse. — Christina Perrier, InStyle, 18 July 2026

As for what’s to come for Alia, the film’s stars and creatives have remained tight-lipped, though Taylor-Joy did hint at the complexity of her role during a March interview with CinemaBlend. — Shania Russell, Entertainment Weekly, 14 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for tight-lipped

• eucalypt
• manuscript
• nondescript
• superscript
• chipped
• clipped
• crypt
• dipped
• dripped
• flipped
• gripped
• hipped

Kids Definition

tight-lipped

adjective

-ˈlipt

1

: having the lips closed tight (as in determination)

2

: not liking to speak : taciturn