tight-lipped they endure their fates and we are the losers from their numb taciturnity—Anthony Quinton
2
Scots law
a
: such failure to assert a legal right as implies that there has been satisfaction or abandonment of it
b
: the plea of mora and taciturnity setting up such failure
Word History
Etymology
Middle English taciturnite, from Middle French or Latin; Middle French taciturnité, from Latin taciturnitat-, taciturnitas, from taciturnus + -itat-, -itas -ity
The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits
Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.
Expanded definitions
Detailed etymologies
Advanced search tools
All ad-free
Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice
for true word lovers.