Silence

Definition

Silence is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to the absence of sound or noise, or a state of being quiet. As a verb, it means to cause someone or something to stop making noise or to suppress expression.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsaɪ.ləns/
• Respelling: SYE-lens

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈsaɪ.ləns/
• Respelling: SYE-lens

Etymology

The word "silence" originates from Old French "silence," derived from Latin "silentium," meaning "a being silent," based on "silens," the present participle of "silere," meaning "to be quiet."

Derivatives

• Silent (adjective)
• Silencer (noun)
• Silencing (noun/verb)
• Unsilenced (adjective)
• Silently (adverb)

Synonyms

• Quiet
• Stillness
• Muting

Antonyms

• Noise
• Clamor
• Sound

Usage

The term "silence" is used in contexts of peace, control, or absence of sound. Examples include "The silence in the room was deafening" (noun) and "The teacher silenced the noisy class" (verb).

Related Terms

• Stillness: The absence of movement or sound.
• Mute: To reduce or eliminate sound.
• Tranquility: A state of peace and quiet.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The absence of sound: Refers to a complete lack of noise or disturbance.
  • Example: "The silence of the night was broken by a distant owl."
• A state of being quiet: Refers to maintaining stillness or refraining from speech.
  • Example: "The library rules require complete silence."

Verb

• To cause to stop making noise: Refers to quieting or muting something.
  • Example: "He silenced the alarm clock with a quick press."
• To suppress expression: Refers to preventing someone from speaking or voicing their opinion.
  • Example: "The regime silenced dissent through strict measures."