Definition of SILENCE

silence

Plural: silences

Noun

  • the state of being silent (as when no one is speaking)
    • "there was a shocked silence"
    • "he gestured for silence"
  • the absence of sound
    • "he needed silence in order to sleep"
  • a refusal to speak when expected
    • "his silence about my contribution was surprising"
  • the trait of keeping things secret
  • The absence of any sound.
  • The act of refraining from speaking.
  • Refraining from speaking, for purposes of prayer or meditation; especially, a form of worship practiced by the Society of Friends (Quakers) during meetings.

Verb

Verb Forms: silenced, silencing, silences

  • To make something silent or quiet.
  • cause to be quiet or not talk
    • "Please silence the children in the church!"
  • keep from expression, for example by threats or pressure
    • "All dissenters were silenced when the dictator assumed power"
  • To make (someone or something) silent.
  • To repress the expression of something.
  • To suppress criticism, etc.
  • To block gene expression.
  • To murder.

Intj

  • Be silent.

Examples

  • "You have the right to silence," said the police officer.
  • Can you silence the crowd, so we can start the show?
  • deadly silence
  • During silence a message came to me that there was that of God in every person.
  • He hoped his clever play would silence his opponent’s winning streak for a turn.
  • in silence
  • Silence the critics.
  • Silence the doubters.
  • Silence! Enough of your insolence!
  • total silence
  • When the motor stopped, the silence was almost deafening.
  • Women, as well as children, have their thoughts or emotions routinely silenced.

Origin / Etymology

From Middle English silence, from Old French silence, from Latin silentium (“silence”), from silēns (“quiet, silent”, present participle of silēre) + -ium. Displaced native Old English swīġe and sālnes.

Scrabble Score: 9

silence: valid Scrabble (US) TWL Word
silence: valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
silence: valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 12

silence: valid Words With Friends Word