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Habitually silent or quiet, inclined to talk very little.
synonyms:reservedreticent
The word 'taciturn' comes from the Latin 'taciturnus', which is derived from 'tacere', meaning 'to be silent'. It has been used in the English language since the early 19th century.
This word is often used in everyday conversation and literary contexts to describe a person's demeanor, particularly in situations where someone is uncommunicative or prefers to listen rather than speak.
While not used in everyday casual conversations, 'taciturn' appears in literary works and discussions about personality traits, making it somewhat familiar to a broad audience.
Despite being surrounded by friends, Sarah remained taciturn, contributing little to the lively conversation.
The taciturn nature of the old man made him an enigma in the small town.
In contrast to her boisterous siblings, Lisa was notably taciturn, often lost in her thoughts.
The word 'taciturn' is an intriguing term that captures the essence of those who prefer silence over chatter. Originating from Latin, it evokes images of thoughtful individuals who may have much to say but choose to keep their thoughts to themselves. While it may seem like a negative trait to some, being taciturn can often signify depth and introspection. So next time you meet someone quiet, remember they might just be a taciturn thinker, contemplating the world around them!