PoliticsJuly 14, 2026

reticence

/ˈret.ɪ.dəns/

Definition

A state of being reserved or hesitant, characterized by a reluctance to take action or commit to something due to caution or uncertainty.

Etymology

The word stems from the Latin 'reticentia,' derived from the verb 'reticere,' which means to remain silent or keep quiet. It entered English in the 19th century to denote the act of being restrained or uncommunicative.

In the news

In this article, the word describes the business community's hesitation to launch new plans because they are uncertain about the economic future as EU funding winds down. This reticence highlights a broader climate of risk-aversion and economic stagnation.

A toxic cocktail in politics and the economy

Read the full article ↗

eKathimerini.com

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