Vocabulary in context
SAT Vocabulary Workbook
The closest companion to SATVocab for students who want guided lessons and written practice.
Check the workbook
Taciturn
Silent; not inclined to talk; reserved in conversation.
adjectiveCheck this word before you leave
Pick the meaning. Keys A–D work too.
How well do you know this word now?
Your choice schedules the next review.
💡
Imagine This
The cautious taxi driver never in the mood to talk to anyone while he is driving. When he makes a sharp turn, the taxi turns smoothly and silently.
🔊
Sounds Like
tas-i-turn
👀
Looks Like
Looks like the word tacit + turn; visually reminiscent of tacit (silent) and turn (a shift away from talking).
📝
Remember This
Taciturn shares the root with tacit, meaning understood without being stated; taciturn describes someone who is habitually quiet.
📚
Other Forms
tacitadjective
taciturnitynoun
📌
Note
Used to describe a person's nature or demeanor (not necessarily a temporary moment). Do not confuse with 'reticent' in contexts where the person is willing to speak when needed.
🧠
Study Deeper
Examples
- Although brilliant, he was taciturn at meetings, offering insights only when asked.
- Her taciturn demeanor made her seem aloof, but her careful questions revealed her intelligence.
Synonyms
reticentsilentreservedlaconicuncommunicative
Antonyms
talkativecommunicativegarrulous
Etymology
From Latin tacitus 'silent' + suffix -urnus; via Old French taciturne, meaning reserved or silent.
Mnemonic
Taciturn = tacit + turn. A taciturn person 'turns away' from talking, staying silent.
Next Word
Continue in alphabetical order.
Try a Random Word
Pick any word below to jump in.
Amicable
adjectiveHaving or showing friendliness; not hostile; relating to or characterized by goodwill and a desire to avoid conflict.
Derivative
adjective (also noun)Derived from something else; not original or inventive. In mathematics, the derivative is the instantaneous rate of change of a function.
Reclusive
adjectiveAvoiding the company of others; preferring to live in solitude or seclusion.
Similar Words
Related words and words with the same part of speech.
Reticent
adjectiveInclined to keep one's thoughts and feelings to oneself; reserved and quiet in speech.
Laconic
adjectiveExpressed in only a few words; concise to the point of seeming abrupt.
Abstruse
adjectiveDifficult to understand; obscure or highly complex.
Accidental
adjectiveHappening by chance or without deliberate planning; not intended. In music, it is also a noun for a symbol that temporarily alters a pitch.
Acerbic
adjectiveSharp or biting in tone or taste; caustic or mordant in manner.
Acquiescent
adjectiveReady to agree or approve without protest; compliant.
Study beyond this word
Turn vocabulary practice into a complete SAT plan
Add a workbook for repetition or the official guide for full-test context.
First-time test takers
Official SAT Guide
Official question styles, test structure, and print practice from the College Board.
Check the official guidePaid Amazon links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.