Reticent

Reticent describes a person who is reluctant to reveal their thoughts, feelings, or opinions; taciturn or reserved. This restraint often stems from shyness, caution, or a deliberate choice to remain silent. It can manifest in various social situations, from casual conversations to important discussions, and suggests a preference for privacy and a lack of openness, making it sometimes difficult to understand the person's true perspective. It's the conscious act of keeping one's counsel and the quality of not revealing one's true feelings and not speaking freely.

Reticent meaning with examples

• Despite the exciting news, she remained reticent, offering only a slight nod. Her colleagues struggled to determine what she was really thinking, leaving them with a feeling of uncertainty about the situation and her position on it.
• He was famously reticent about his past, rarely discussing his childhood. This made researching his history a significant challenge for biographers, as any attempts at further questioning were usually met with silence.
• During the interrogation, the suspect proved to be frustratingly reticent, answering questions with minimal responses. His silence and refusal to fully cooperate hindered the detectives and the ongoing investigation.
• The normally boisterous child was surprisingly reticent around strangers. Their initial shyness made it difficult for them to form friendships at the new school, hindering socialisation.
• The committee members, feeling pressure to appear as the ideal role models for the community, were unusually reticent about expressing dissent during the crucial meeting, potentially influencing its outcome.