WordGarden.iosilently
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /sˈaɪləntli/
US
- /ˈsaɪləntli/
Meanings
Adverb
without making any sound
without speaking or without openly expressing something
Beyond the definition
To do something silently means to do it without making noise. Think of a cat moving through tall grass without a sound, trying not to be noticed. But "silently" is not only about sound. It can also describe thoughts, feelings, or reactions that are not spoken. You might agree silently with a small nod instead of saying anything. You might also suffer silently, keeping your pain to yourself. The word often shows that something important is happening, even when nothing is said out loud.
"Silently" describes an action or state performed without any sound or noise. It is more than just being quiet; it implies a deliberate absence of vocalization or auditory disturbance. For example: "The snow fell silently on the rooftops" paints a picture of peaceful, absolute stillness.
However, "silently" isn't limited to physical actions. We often use it to describe internal experiences. You might silently judge someone's outfit or silently celebrate a personal victory. This usage highlights that something is happening within—thoughts, feelings, or reactions—that simply isn't being voiced to the world.
The context of "silently" can also add layers of meaning. A character who reacts silently to bad news might be perceived as stoic and reserved. Someone who works silently on a project is often seen as focused and dedicated. Furthermore, silence itself can be a powerful statement. A protest held silently can be incredibly impactful, conveying a message through sheer presence rather than noise.
So, whether it is the hush of falling snow or the unspoken thoughts within us, "silently" speaks to a world beyond sound—a realm of quiet action, hidden emotions, and powerful stillness.
Examples
- 1
Avoiding noise
She closed the bedroom door silently so she wouldn't wake the baby.
- 2
Reading
The students read the passage silently before discussing it.
- 3
Meeting
He sat silently through the whole meeting, taking notes.
- 4
Shared observation
We watched silently as the sun came up over the lake.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Quiet departure
After the argument, Maya silently packed her bag and left.
- 6
Private gratitude
I silently thanked the stranger who held the elevator for me.
- 7
Hidden suffering
For years, he suffered silently instead of asking for help.
- Phrasesuffer silently
have pain or problems without talking about them
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- move silently
- sit silently
- silently watch
- silently pray
Word family
Explore
- quietness
- nonverbal communication
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- silentlyadverb