tight-lipped

adjective

ˈtīt-ˈlipt How to pronounce tight-lipped (audio)
Synonyms of tight-lippednext
1
: having the lips closed tight (as in determination)
2
: reluctant to speak : taciturn

Synonyms of tight-lipped

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Examples of tight-lipped in a Sentence

the cabinet official is usually tight-lipped about her private life
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Even with everyone being tight-lipped, new details are emerging. — Bryan West, USA Today, 2 July 2026 Prime Video and Ron have been tight-lipped, but the success of the franchise is already undeniable. — Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 24 June 2026 America’s neighbor to the north has been tight-lipped about its America 250 plans. — Max Grinstein, The Washington Examiner, 3 July 2026 Swift—known for dropping hints and Easter eggs into her outfits, videos, and performances—has remained tight-lipped through it all. — Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 1 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for tight-lipped

Word History

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of tight-lipped was in 1876

Rhymes for tight-lipped

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Browse Nearby Words

tightlining
tight-lipped
tightlock
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Cite this Entry

“Tight-lipped.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tight-lipped. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

tight-lipped

adjective
-ˈlipt
1
: having the lips closed tight (as in determination)
2
: not liking to speak : taciturn
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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