reticent
/ˈɹɛtɪsənt/
Group 14Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Not revealing one's thoughts or feelings readily; reserved GRE
Example in Context
The normally reticent scientist became unusually animated when discussing the implications of the breakthrough that had consumed the past decade of her career.
Synonyms
reservedquietshy
Etymology
Holding back from speaking, reserved in nature.
- re- (Latin) — back
- tacere (Latin) — to be silent
Memory Aid
🏕️Sounds like “red sit tent”
A shy person sitting in a RED TENT, too RETICENT to join the party outside!
Visual Association
🤐A quiet individual sitting alone in a tent, peeking out but not daring to speak.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “reticent” mean on the GRE?
reticent (adjective) means “Not revealing one's thoughts or feelings readily; reserved”. The normally reticent scientist became unusually animated when discussing the implications of the breakthrough that had consumed the past decade of her career.
How to remember “reticent” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “reticent” sounds like “red sit tent”. A shy person sitting in a RED TENT, too RETICENT to join the party outside!
What are synonyms for “reticent”?
Common synonyms: reserved, quiet, shy.