Langimage
English

silence

|si/lence|

B1

/ˈsaɪləns/

quieting or suppressing

Etymology
Etymology Information

'silence' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'silence,' where 'silere' meant 'to be quiet.'

Historical Evolution

'silence' changed from the Old French word 'silence' and eventually became the modern English word 'silence'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'absence of sound,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the absence of sound or noise.

The silence in the library was calming.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

to make someone or something stop making noise.

The teacher silenced the class with a stern look.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35