How Do You Spell RETICENCE?

Pronunciation: [ɹˈɛtɪsəns] (IPA)

Reticence (/ˈrɛt.ɪ.səns/, ret-i-sens) is a noun that refers to the tendency to avoid speaking up or sharing thoughts and feelings. This word is commonly misspelled as 'reitcence' or 'reticance', but the correct spelling includes two 'e's and a 'c'. The first syllable is pronounced with a short 'e' sound, similar to 'met', and the emphasis should be on the second syllable. Knowing the correct spelling and pronunciation of reticence will help you communicate effectively and avoid spelling errors in your writing.

RETICENCE Meaning and Definition

1. Reticence is a noun that refers to the quality or state of being reticent, which is characterized by a reserved or restrained attitude or disposition, particularly in regard to expressing one's thoughts, feelings, or opinions. It is the act of holding back or refraining from speaking freely or openly about personal matters or sensitive subjects.

   Individuals who exhibit reticence may choose to maintain a level of privacy, often avoiding disclosing personal information or engaging in discussions that could reveal too much about themselves. This can stem from a desire to protect one's own privacy, to avoid potential conflict, or to maintain a sense of decorum or professionalism in certain settings.

   Reticence can be seen as a form of self-control and conscious suppression of one's thoughts or emotions, demonstrating a deliberate intention to keep information or personal experiences to oneself. It often gives the impression of someone being quiet or taciturn, carefully considering their words before speaking. This quality may be exhibited in a variety of contexts, such as in personal relationships, professional settings, or public speaking events.

   While reticence can be perceived as a positive trait, demonstrating thoughtfulness and respect for others, it can also potentially hinder effective communication or create barriers between individuals. Thus, achieving a balance between reticence and openness is crucial for developing healthy relationships and effective communication skills.

2. The state of observing continued silence; concealment by silence.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for RETICENCE

• resitence
• resience
• medicence
• paticence
• recidence
• redidence
• reidence
• resicence
• redisence
• redience
• reticense
• realicence
• Reticencey
• reticentce
• reticancie
• reticentie
• retycense
• retticense
• reticiensce

Etymology of RETICENCE

The word "reticence" comes from the Latin word "reticentia", which means "silence" or "keeping silent". It is derived from the verb "reticere", meaning "to be silent" or "to keep secret", which is composed of the prefix "re-" (indicating restraint or negation) and "tacere" (to be silent). The term was first recorded in English in the early 17th century and has maintained its meaning of being reserved or reluctant to speak.

Similar spelling words for RETICENCE

• reticent,
• reticently.

Plural form of RETICENCE is RETICENCES