noun
the state of being silent (as when no one is speaking)
Examples
- there was a shocked silence
- he gestured for silence
noun
the absence of sound
Synonyms
Examples
- he needed silence in order to sleep
- the street was quiet
noun
a refusal to speak when expected
Synonyms
Examples
- his silence about my contribution was surprising
noun
the trait of keeping things secret
Synonyms
verb
cause to be quiet or not talk
Synonyms
Examples
- Please silence the children in the church!
verb
keep from expression, for example by threats or pressure
Examples
- All dissenters were silenced when the dictator assumed power