silence
//ˈsaɪ̯ləns//
Forms
- Plural
- silences
- present (v1)
- silence
- past (v2)
- silenced
- past participle (v3)
- silenced
- present participle
- silencing
- 3rd person singular
- silences
Definitions
1.The absence of any sound.
- There was a dead silence for a few seconds.
- When the motor stopped, the silence was almost deafening.
2.The act of refraining from speaking.
- "You have the right to silence," said the police officer.
3.Refraining from speaking, for purposes of prayer or meditation; especially, a form of worship practiced by the Society of Friends (Quakers) during meetings.
- During silence a message came to me that there was that of God in every person.
1.To make (someone or something) silent.
- Can you silence the crowd, so we can start the show?
2.To repress the expression of something.
- Women, as well as children, have their thoughts or emotions routinely silenced.
3.To suppress criticism, etc.
4.To block gene expression.
1.Be silent.
- Silence! Enough of your insolence!
Frequency
Overall
Uncommon· #2235
By learning goal
- Everyday conversation
- Rare
- General reading & writing
- Rare
- Academic
- Rare
- Literature
- Uncommon
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.