silence

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a refusal to speak when expected

   Their silence about my contribution was surprising.

2. 2
   noun

   the absence of sound

   The silence of the forest was relaxing compared to the din of the city.

3. 3
   noun

   the state of being silent, as when no one is speaking

   There was a shocked silence.

4. 4
   verb

   cause to be quiet or not talk

   Please silence the children in the church!

5. 5
   verb

   keep from expression, for example by threats or pressure

   All dissenters were silenced when the dictator assumed power

6. 6
   noun

   The absence of any sound.

   When the motor stopped, the silence was almost deafening.

7. 7
   noun

   The act of refraining from speaking.

   "You have the right to silence," said the police officer.

8. 8
   noun

   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.

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.