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

Reportedly, SpaceX filings indicate total multi-phase investments could reach $119 billion, while partner Intel has pledged support despite remaining tight-lipped about the exact nature of its involvement. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 7 Aug. 2026

Spelling stayed tight-lipped throughout the discussion, but did urge fans to continue listening to former costar and cohost Jennie Garth on the 90210MG podcast. — Shelby Stivale, Entertainment Weekly, 6 Aug. 2026

Everyone’s tight-lipped about who’s on it, but nobody seems out of the question. — Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 4 Aug. 2026

The actor remains tight-lipped about season four, except revealing that Bradley Whitford, who portrays Grace’s husband, first gentleman Todd, has a bigger role as expected. — David Canfield, HollywoodReporter, 1 Aug. 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