Pronunciation

/səˈlaɪəns/

Definitions

• Noun: 1. The absence of sound or noise; quietude. 2. A period of complete or respectful quiet; stillness. 3. [U] (uncountable) The act of remaining silent or not speaking, often as a sign of respect or disagreement. 4. [C] (countable) A moment of silence, usually observed in memory or respect.

• Verb: To remain quiet or not speak; to hold one’s peace. 2. To make someone else stop talking by not responding.

Phrases

• “Keep silence” implies not making any sound or talking.
• “Silence is golden” suggests that it’s better to be quiet than to say something unwise.
• “Speak in silence” refers to communicating non-verbally, often through gestures or written means.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The library was filled with an eerie silence as everyone studied quietly.”
• Verb: “After the teacher asked a question, there was a moment of silence before anyone answered.”
• Silent treatment: “She gave her brother the silent treatment after he broke her favorite vase.”

Synonyms

• Quiet
• Stillness
• Quietude -肃静 (Sùjìng) (Mandarin Chinese)
• Hush
• Silence is golden
• Mute
• Subdued

Antonyms

• Noise
• Chatter
• Talk
• Ruckus
• Loudness