- Today's Word
Reticent
RET-ih-sent
Definition
(adjective) Reluctant to speak or reveal one’s thoughts or feelings.
Example
He was reticent during the interview, offering only brief replies.
Fun Fact
Although reticent originally meant simply “silent,” its modern use is richer—it signals someone who’s hesitant to speak, often due to personal boundaries, social anxiety, or strategic restraint. In legal contexts, reticent witnesses might be protecting themselves. In fiction, reticent characters often hold secrets. It’s a favorite word when someone’s silence says more than words ever could.
(adjective) Showy but cheap and of poor quality; lacking good taste.
The room was filled with tawdry decorations that looked like they came from a discount bin.
Mid 17th century: contraction of St. Audrey’s lace, which referred to cheap lace sold at fairs in honor of St. Audrey. Over time, the lace was seen as gaudy and tasteless, and St. Audrey became tawdry.