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

Previously, the board had remained tight-lipped about the probe. — Rebecca Noel, Charlotte Observer, 28 Aug. 2026

The proclamation does not specify any countries by name that this action applies to -- something the administration has been tight-lipped about. — Emily Chang, ABC News, 27 Aug. 2026

Though, some have noted Warsh could remain tight-lipped ahead of the Fed's monetary policy decision ahead of September. — Lee Ying Shan,ananya Chetia, CNBC, 25 Aug. 2026

While a few have rumored relationships, most of the cast has been tight-lipped about their personal life and relationship status. — Giovana Gelhoren, InStyle, 24 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