tight-lipped

adjective

ˈtīt-ˈlipt How to pronounce tight-lipped (audio)
Definition of tight-lippednext
as in silent
tending not to speak frequently (as by habit or inclination) the cabinet official is usually tight-lipped about her private life

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of tight-lipped The city’s corporation counsel has also been tight-lipped, with no comment on what settlements on the horizon could be behind the eye-popping increase. — Jake Sheridan, Chicago Tribune, 18 Sep. 2026 Investigators have been tight-lipped about what facility in Chicago is handling the lab work, some of which arrived as early as July 27. — Sara MacHi, CBS News, 17 Sep. 2026 What's less certain is what Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh, who's been tight-lipped about the path of monetary policy, will say at his post-decision press conference. — Alex Harring, CNBC, 16 Sep. 2026 This is reportedly making some people nervous, particularly because Parton was notoriously tight-lipped about her private life. — Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 15 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for tight-lipped
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tight-lipped
  1. silent
  2. reserved
  3. dumb
  4. restrained
Adjective
  • Final Thoughts The Hisense 8,000 BTU UltraSlim Smart Inverter is a standout window air conditioner that effortlessly balances sleek design, near-silent operation, and top-tier performance.
    — John R. Delaney, PC Magazine, 14 Oct. 2026
  • The California Democratic Party opposes the measure, but many of its leading officials have stayed silent.
    — Andrew Graham, Sacbee.com, 14 Oct. 2026
Definition of silent
Adjective
  • Top with reserved sausage and mushrooms, red onion, bell pepper, pepperoni and olives.
    — Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 16 Oct. 2026
  • The reaction from the Greek government was decidedly more reserved, reflecting its desire to maintain close ties with Washington.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 14 Oct. 2026
Definition of reserved
Adjective
  • California is flush with dumb money and bad judgment, and an insatiable romance with an epic 1,200-mile shoreline.
    — Steve Lopez, Los Angeles Times, 17 Oct. 2026
  • There were so many strangers ready to weigh in on my dumb life choices!
    — Sara Vilkomerson, Robb Report, 17 Oct. 2026
Definition of dumb
Adjective
  • The sheer black fabric included embroidered botanical elements, adding a touch of whimsy to the restrained look.
    — Julia Teti, Footwear News, 15 Oct. 2026
  • Either way, Rahimi balances the character’s clear vulnerability with just enough ambiguity about his plans for the school, accentuated through Majidi’s restrained and naturalistic approach.
    — Kambole Campbell, Variety, 11 Oct. 2026
Definition of restrained

Browse Nearby Words

tight-knit
tight-lipped
tight-mouthed
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Tight-lipped.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tight-lipped. Accessed 21 Oct. 2026.

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