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 of reticence

• reluctance

Examples of reticence in a Sentence

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

Recent Examples on the Web

In Chile, in addition to the geological challenges discussed above, some reticence to invest in copper development may also be due in part to the strength of the country’s lithium sector. — Ariel Cohen, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026

Also in that courtroom that first day is his brother Jack (Noah Centineo), a more visibly restless and outgoing soul compared to Cody’s protective reticence. — Robert Abele, Los Angeles Times, 14 Aug. 2026

But the best quarterbacks ultimately find a way, and the circumstances for this team and player remove any reticence to being malleable. — Alec Lewis, New York Times, 28 July 2026

Nolan doesn’t exactly share his hero’s reticence; one of his signature tactics as a writer is to place blocky, boldface ideas in furious opposition. — Justin Chang, New Yorker, 17 July 2026

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