reticence

noun

ˈre-tə-sən(t)s How to pronounce reticence (audio)
Definition of reticencenext
as in reluctance
a lack of willingness or desire to do or accept something the publisher's reticence to make content available online for free

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of reticence In fact, during the oral argument, several of the justices expressed reticence about further reforms that might commercialize college sports. — Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 10 June 2026 The reticence of Cartland’s heroes belies agonies of loneliness. — Simon Perry, PEOPLE, 18 June 2026 Pennick and Kathy Elgas had — yet again — bantered that very morning over his reticence to adopt another cat, with the volunteer emphasizing the overwhelming need and Pennick stressing his need to protect his heart from the inevitable pain of a cat eventually dying. — Donna Vickroy, Chicago Tribune, 25 June 2026 Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's government and the Catholic Church in Spain signed an agreement in March to compensate victims, after years of reticence from the Church hierarchy. — CBS News, 8 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for reticence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for reticence
reluctance
Noun
  • Bill Clinton’s reluctance to commit ground troops in areas of distress.
    — Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 6 July 2026
  • The outlet noted that concerns about travel restrictions, including those from the US, and the impact on the local tourism industry may be driving the country’s reluctance to share more information.
    — Beth Mole, ArsTechnica, 2 July 2026
Definition of reluctance

Browse Nearby Words

rethought
reticence
reticency
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Cite this Entry

“Reticence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/reticence. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on reticence

Nglish: Translation of reticence for Spanish Speakers

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