Top 60 Slang For Silent – Meaning & Usage

Silence may be golden, but that doesn’t mean it can’t have its own language. Ever wondered how to describe those moments when words are not needed? Our team has put together a list of the top slang for silent that will have you nodding in agreement and chuckling in recognition. So, shush those doubts and dive into our compilation to level up your silent communication game!

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1. Zip it

This phrase is a command to stop talking or making noise. It is often used in a playful or lighthearted manner.

For example, a parent might say to their child, “Zip it, I’m on an important phone call.”
In a meeting, someone might say to a talkative colleague, “Hey, zip it and let someone else speak.”
A friend might jokingly tell another friend, “Zip it, we’re trying to watch the movie in peace.”

2. Mum’s the word

This phrase means to keep something confidential or not reveal information. It implies that one should remain silent and not speak about a particular topic.

For instance, if someone tells you a secret, you might respond with “Mum’s the word, I won’t tell anyone.”
In a spy movie, a character might say, “Remember, mum’s the word about our mission.”
Two friends planning a surprise party might agree, “Let’s keep it mum’s the word until the big day.”

3. Hush-hush

This term is used to describe something that is kept private or not meant to be widely known or discussed.

For example, a company might have a hush-hush project that only a select few employees are aware of.
A celebrity might have a hush-hush romance that they don’t want the media to know about.
A friend might say, “I have some hush-hush news, but I can’t tell you just yet.”

4. Button it

This phrase is a command to stop speaking or making noise. It is a more assertive way of telling someone to be quiet.

For instance, a teacher might say to a chatty student, “Button it and pay attention.”
In a heated argument, one person might yell at the other, “Just button it and listen for once.”
A parent might use this phrase when their child won’t stop talking, saying, “Okay, that’s enough, button it now.”

5. Shush

This word is used as a command or request for someone to be quiet or stop making noise.

For example, in a library, a librarian might say “Shush!” to quiet down noisy patrons.
A person might use this word to hush a crying baby, saying, “Shush, it’s okay, everything will be fine.”
In a movie theater, a fellow moviegoer might turn to someone talking and say, “Shush, we’re trying to watch the movie.”

6. Can it

This phrase is used to tell someone to stop talking or making noise. It is a more direct and forceful way of asking someone to be silent.

For example, if someone is being loud and disruptive, you might say, “Hey, can it! We’re trying to concentrate here.”
During a heated argument, one person might yell at the other, “Can it! I don’t want to hear another word from you.”
A teacher might say to a noisy classroom, “Alright, everyone, can it! We need to start the lesson.”

7. Pipe down

This phrase is used to tell someone to be quiet or stop talking. It is a more casual and friendly way of asking someone to be silent.

For instance, if someone is talking loudly in a movie theater, you might say, “Hey, pipe down! People are trying to watch the movie.”
During a conversation, one person might say to another, “Pipe down, I’m trying to listen to what they’re saying.”
A parent might tell their children, “Okay, it’s time to pipe down and go to bed.”

8. Zip your lip

This phrase is used to tell someone to stop talking or keep quiet. It is a playful and lighthearted way of asking someone to be silent.

For example, if someone is gossiping too much, you might say, “Hey, zip your lip! We don’t need to know all the details.”
During a meeting, one person might jokingly say to another, “Zip your lip, we’ve heard enough from you.”
A friend might say to someone who is about to reveal a secret, “Zip your lip, we don’t want anyone else to know.”

9. Hold your tongue

This phrase is used to tell someone to refrain from speaking or to keep quiet. It is a more formal and serious way of asking someone to be silent.

For instance, if someone is about to say something offensive, you might say, “Hold your tongue! That’s not appropriate.”
During a heated argument, one person might say to the other, “Hold your tongue, let’s not say things we’ll regret.”
A teacher might reprimand a student by saying, “Hold your tongue and listen to what I’m saying.”

10. Keep it zipped

This phrase is used to tell someone to keep their mouth closed or to refrain from speaking. It is a more direct and commanding way of asking someone to be silent.

For example, if someone is about to reveal a secret, you might say, “Keep it zipped! We don’t want anyone else to know.”
During a confidential meeting, one person might say to the others, “Alright, everyone, keep it zipped. This information is sensitive.”
A boss might tell their employees, “Keep it zipped and focus on your work.”

11. Put a sock in it

This phrase is used to tell someone to be quiet or stop talking. It implies that the person is making too much noise or talking too much.

For example, if someone is being loud in a movie theater, you might say, “Hey, put a sock in it!”
During a heated argument, one person might yell at the other, “Just put a sock in it and listen for once!”
If someone is constantly complaining, you might say, “Enough already! Put a sock in it!”

12. Hold your peace

This phrase is often used in a formal setting, such as a wedding ceremony, to request that attendees remain silent and not object or speak out.

For instance, during a wedding ceremony, the officiant might say, “If anyone has any objections, speak now or forever hold your peace.”
In a courtroom, the judge might say, “Order in the court! Hold your peace or be held in contempt.”
In a tense family meeting, someone might say, “Let’s all hold our peace and listen to each other without interruption.”

13. Mum

This is a term used to tell someone to be quiet or stop talking. It is often used in British English and is similar to the American English term “shh”.

For example, if someone is talking loudly during a movie, you might say, “Mum!”
In a library, a librarian might say, “Please keep it mum and respect the quiet environment.”
If someone is gossiping too much, you might say, “Mum’s the word! Let’s keep it to ourselves.”

14. Keep schtum

This phrase is used to tell someone to keep quiet or not reveal information. It is often used in British English and has a slightly secretive or conspiratorial connotation.

For instance, if someone asks about your plans for the weekend and you want to keep them a secret, you might say, “I’ll keep schtum.”
In a group discussion about a sensitive topic, someone might say, “Let’s all keep schtum until we have more information.”
If someone accidentally reveals a surprise party plan, you might say, “You had one job – to keep schtum!”

15. Clam up

This phrase is used to tell someone to stop talking or become silent. It implies that the person is revealing too much information or saying something they shouldn’t.

For example, if someone starts sharing personal details about a friend, you might say, “Hey, clam up!”
During a police interrogation, an officer might say, “The more you clam up, the more suspicious you look.”
If someone is gossiping about others, you might say, “Don’t be a gossip. Clam up and mind your own business.”

16. Be still

This phrase is used to tell someone to stop moving or making noise. It is often used in a commanding or authoritative tone.

For example, a parent might say to their child, “Be still and listen to me.”
In a spooky movie, a character might whisper, “Be still, we don’t want it to hear us.”
A teacher might say to a rowdy class, “Be still and pay attention.”

17. Hold your horses

This phrase is used to tell someone to wait or be patient. It is often used when someone is rushing or getting ahead of themselves.

For instance, if someone is interrupting a conversation, someone might say, “Hold your horses, it’s not your turn.”
In a situation where someone is rushing to make a decision, someone might caution, “Hold your horses, let’s think this through.”
A parent might say to an excited child, “Hold your horses, we’re not leaving just yet.”

18. Keep mum

This phrase is used to tell someone to remain silent or keep quiet. It is often used to imply secrecy or to prevent someone from revealing information.

For example, if someone is about to share a secret, someone might say, “Keep mum, we don’t want anyone else to know.”
In a situation where someone is about to blurt out something inappropriate, someone might warn, “Keep mum, it’s not the right time.”
A spy movie character might say, “Keep mum and don’t blow our cover.”

19. Quiet as a mouse

This phrase is used to describe something or someone that is extremely quiet or silent. It is often used to emphasize the absence of noise.

For instance, if a room is completely silent, someone might say, “It’s as quiet as a mouse in here.”
In a situation where someone is trying to sneak around without being heard, someone might whisper, “Be quiet as a mouse.”
A librarian might remind library visitors to be “quiet as a mouse” to maintain a peaceful environment.

20. Mute

This term is used to describe someone or something that is silent or unable to speak. It can refer to both people and objects.

For example, if someone is unable to speak due to a medical condition, they might be described as “mute.”
In a situation where someone is intentionally choosing not to speak, someone might say, “They’re staying mute on the matter.”
A character in a movie might be described as “mute” if they communicate solely through gestures or sign language.

21. Noiseless

This term refers to the absence of noise or sound. It describes something that is completely quiet or makes little to no noise. “Noiseless” can be used to describe a person, an object, or a situation.

For example, “The library was completely noiseless, with everyone studying in silence.”
A person might say, “I prefer a noiseless environment when I’m trying to concentrate.”
In a review of a product, someone might mention, “The noiseless operation of this blender is a great feature.”

22. Taciturn

This word describes a person who is habitually silent or uncommunicative. It refers to someone who tends to speak very little and is often seen as being reserved or introverted.

For instance, “He’s a taciturn individual who prefers to listen rather than speak.”
In a social setting, someone might comment, “She’s always been taciturn, but she’s a great listener.”
When describing a friend, one might say, “He’s a bit taciturn, but once you get to know him, he opens up.”

23. Soundless

Similar to “noiseless,” this term refers to the absence of sound or noise. It can be used interchangeably with “silent” or “noiseless” to describe something that is completely quiet or makes little to no noise.

For example, “The soundless night was interrupted only by the occasional hoot of an owl.”
A person might say, “The soundless room allowed me to focus on my thoughts.”
In a review of a product, someone might mention, “The soundless operation of this fan makes it perfect for sleeping.”

24. Voiceless

This word describes a person who is unable to speak or make vocal sounds. It refers to someone who lacks the ability to produce speech due to physical or neurological reasons.

For instance, “He’s a voiceless individual who communicates through sign language.”
In a discussion about disabilities, someone might say, “People who are voiceless often face unique challenges in expressing themselves.”
When describing a character in a book, one might write, “The voiceless protagonist relied on written notes to communicate with others.”

25. Muffled

This term describes a sound that is not clear or distinct because it is being obstructed or dampened. It refers to something that is muted or softened in volume.

For example, “The muffled sound of voices came from the other room.”
A person might say, “I could hear a muffled noise coming from under the floorboards.”
In a review of headphones, someone might mention, “The sound quality is great, but the bass can sometimes sound muffled.”

26. Hushed

This term refers to a state of silence or quietness. It can also imply a sense of secrecy or confidentiality.

For example, “The library was hushed as students studied for their exams.”
A person might say, “Keep your voice hushed, we don’t want anyone overhearing our conversation.”
In a theater, an audience member might be asked to “Please keep your phone on silent and your conversation hushed.”

27. Silent as the grave

This phrase is used to describe a state of absolute silence, often in a spooky or eerie context.

For instance, “The room fell silent as the ghostly figure appeared.”
A person might say, “I was so scared, you could have heard a pin drop. It was silent as the grave.”
In a horror movie, a character might whisper, “Be silent as the grave, or they’ll hear us.”

28. Silent as the night

This phrase is used to describe a state of silence, often in a peaceful or serene context.

For example, “The forest was silent as the night, with only the sound of crickets in the distance.”
A person might say, “I love sitting outside at night, it’s so silent as the night.”
A poet might write, “The world was hushed and silent as the night, a moment frozen in time.”

29. Silent as a tomb

This phrase is used to describe a state of complete silence, often in a solemn or grave context.

For instance, “The church was silent as a tomb during the funeral service.”
A person might say, “The classroom was silent as a tomb as the teacher handed out the test.”
In a suspenseful movie, a character might whisper, “We have to be silent as a tomb or they’ll find us.”

30. Silent as the dead

This phrase is used to describe a state of complete silence, often in a morbid or eerie context.

For example, “The abandoned house was silent as the dead, with no signs of life.”
A person might say, “The graveyard was silent as the dead, except for the sound of the wind.”
In a ghost story, a character might whisper, “We have to be silent as the dead or they’ll hear us.”

31. Silent as the snow

This phrase is used to describe someone or something that is extremely quiet or silent, just like the gentle falling of snow. It implies a peaceful and serene silence.

For example, “The library was silent as the snow, with everyone studying quietly.”
A person might say, “She entered the room, silent as the snow, not wanting to disturb anyone.”
In a poem, one might write, “The night was silent as the snow, not a sound to be heard.”

32. Silent as the stars

This phrase is used to describe someone or something that is completely silent, just like the vast expanse of the starry night sky. It conveys a sense of stillness and tranquility.

For instance, “The room was silent as the stars, not even a whisper could be heard.”
A person might say, “He stood there, silent as the stars, taking in the beauty of the night.”
In a story, one might describe a scene as, “The forest was silent as the stars, not a rustle of leaves or chirp of birds.”

33. Silent as the moon

This phrase is used to describe someone or something that is exceptionally quiet or silent, similar to the gentle glow of moonlight. It suggests a calm and peaceful silence.

For example, “The classroom was silent as the moon, as the students focused on their work.”
A person might say, “She walked through the house, silent as the moon, not wanting to wake anyone.”
In a poem, one might write, “The night was silent as the moon, casting a tranquil glow over the world.”

34. Silent as the sun

This phrase is used to describe someone or something that is completely silent, just like the immovable and steadfast nature of the sun. It implies a profound and unbroken silence.

For instance, “The room was silent as the sun, not a sound could be heard.”
A person might say, “He sat there, silent as the sun, lost in his thoughts.”
In a story, one might describe a tense moment as, “The air was silent as the sun, as everyone held their breath.”

35. Silent as the ocean

This phrase is used to describe someone or something that is incredibly silent, just like the vast and deep ocean. It conveys a sense of stillness and tranquility.

For example, “The house was silent as the ocean, as everyone slept peacefully.”
A person might say, “She stood there, silent as the ocean, taking in the beauty of the waves.”
In a poem, one might write, “The night was silent as the ocean, with only the sound of gentle waves breaking the silence.”

36. Silent as the mountains

This phrase is used to describe someone or something that is extremely quiet, like the mountains which do not make any noise.

For example, “She sat in the corner, silent as the mountains.”
In a library, a sign might say, “Please be silent as the mountains.”
A hiker might describe the calmness of the mountains by saying, “The mountains were silent as the night.”

37. Silent as the wind

This phrase refers to someone or something that is completely quiet, just like the wind which is silent and cannot be heard.

For instance, “The classroom was silent as the wind.”
A person might say, “The room fell silent as the wind blew through.”
In a peaceful garden, one might describe the atmosphere as “silent as the wind.”

38. Silent as the sky

This phrase is used to describe someone or something that is utterly quiet, similar to the sky which does not produce any sound.

For example, “The audience was silent as the sky during the performance.”
A person might say, “The room became silent as the sky turned dark.”
In a moment of anticipation, someone might describe the silence as “silent as the sky.”

39. Silent as the universe

This phrase refers to someone or something that is completely silent, like the vastness of the universe which is devoid of sound.

For instance, “The room fell silent as the universe.”
A person might say, “The night was silent as the universe.”
In a moment of stillness, one might describe the silence as “silent as the universe.”

40. Silent as eternity

This phrase is used to describe someone or something that is completely silent, like eternity which is endless and devoid of any noise.

For example, “The room was silent as eternity.”
A person might say, “The silence stretched on, silent as eternity.”
In a moment of profound quietness, someone might describe the silence as “silent as eternity.”

41. Silent as infinity

This phrase is used to describe a state of absolute silence, as if there is no sound or noise at all. It emphasizes the complete absence of any sound or communication.

For example, “The room was silent as infinity, not even a pin drop could be heard.”
In a suspenseful movie scene, the audience might hold their breath, creating a silent as infinity atmosphere.
A person might say, “The silence in the library was silent as infinity, you could hear a mouse sneeze.”

42. Silent as time

This phrase is used to describe a level of silence that is so profound and deep that it seems to stretch out for a long period of time. It suggests a stillness and absence of noise that is almost timeless.

For instance, “The forest was silent as time, not even the rustling of leaves could be heard.”
During a meditation session, the silence can be so profound that it feels silent as time.
A person might say, “The silence in the empty hall was silent as time, it felt like hours passed by without a sound.”

43. Silent as space

This phrase is used to describe a state of silence that is reminiscent of the vast emptiness and stillness of outer space. It implies a complete absence of noise and a sense of tranquility.

For example, “The room was silent as space, not even a whisper could be heard.”
In a quiet countryside at night, the silence can be as silent as space, with only the sound of distant stars.
A person might say, “The silence in the empty theater was silent as space, you could hear a pin drop.”

44. Zipped lips

This slang phrase is used to describe someone who is intentionally choosing to remain silent or not speak about a particular topic or issue. It suggests the act of closing one’s mouth as a way to keep thoughts or opinions to oneself.

For instance, “When asked about the incident, he kept his zipped lips and refused to comment.”
In a meeting, someone might say, “Let’s keep our zipped lips on this matter until we have more information.”
A person might jokingly say, “I can’t spill the beans, my lips are zipped!”

45. Cat got your tongue?

This phrase is used to ask someone why they are not speaking or why they are being unusually quiet. It is often used in a playful or teasing manner.

For example, “You’ve been awfully quiet today, cat got your tongue?”
When a normally talkative person suddenly becomes silent, someone might ask, “Hey, what’s wrong? Cat got your tongue?”
A person might say, “I asked him a simple question, but he just stood there with a blank expression. Cat must have got his tongue!”

46. Shh

This is an onomatopoeic term used to represent the sound made to signal silence or to hush someone. It is often used to ask someone to be quiet or to keep something a secret.

For example, a librarian might say, “Shh, please keep your voice down in the library.”
A parent might say, “Shh, the baby is sleeping.”
In a movie theater, someone might whisper, “Shh, the movie is starting.”

47. Mute as a fish

This phrase is used to describe someone who is exceptionally quiet or does not speak at all. It implies a level of silence that is comparable to that of a fish, which are known for being quiet creatures.

For instance, a teacher might say, “Tommy is as mute as a fish in class.”
A friend might joke, “Whenever we go out, he’s mute as a fish.”
In a group discussion, someone might comment, “He’s always mute as a fish during meetings.”

48. Tight-lipped

This term is used to describe someone who is unwilling to share information or keeps their thoughts and emotions to themselves. It implies a sense of being closed off or guarded.

For example, a detective might say, “The suspect was tight-lipped during questioning.”
A friend might say, “Whenever I ask her about her love life, she’s always tight-lipped.”
In a gossip-filled office, someone might comment, “He’s tight-lipped about the upcoming layoffs.”

49. Clammed up

This phrase is used to describe someone who suddenly becomes silent or refuses to speak, often due to being nervous, scared, or secretive. It implies a sense of closing up or shutting down communication.

For instance, a witness might clam up during a court trial.
A child might clam up when asked about their day at school.
In an argument, someone might say, “Whenever we start discussing politics, he clams up.”

50. Muted

This term is used to describe someone or something that has been made silent or has had their voice taken away. It can refer to both literal and metaphorical silence.

For example, a TV show might have a muted scene where there is no dialogue.
A person might feel muted in a toxic relationship where their opinions are constantly dismissed.
In a noisy room, someone might say, “Can we keep it muted so I can concentrate?”

51. Speechless

When something is so shocking or surprising that it leaves you without words or unable to speak.

For example, “The news was so devastating that I was left speechless.”
Another example, “The performance was so incredible that the audience was left speechless.”
Someone might say, “I was speechless when I saw the breathtaking view from the mountaintop.”

52. Muzzled

When someone is intentionally silenced or restricted from speaking out or expressing their thoughts or opinions.

For instance, “The government muzzled the journalists, preventing them from reporting the truth.”
In a discussion about censorship, one might say, “People should not be muzzled for expressing their beliefs.”
A person might feel muzzled in a toxic work environment where their ideas are constantly dismissed.

53. Still

A state of silence or absence of noise or movement.

For example, “The forest was so still that you could hear a pin drop.”
In a meditation practice, one might say, “I focused on being still and quieting my mind.”
A person might ask, “Can we please keep still during the movie?”

54. Wordless

When someone is unable to speak or chooses not to use words to communicate.

For instance, “I was so overwhelmed with emotion that I was left wordless.”
In a performance, one might say, “The dancer expressed herself beautifully through her wordless movements.”
A person might describe a powerful piece of art as “leaving them completely wordless.”

55. Unspoken

Something that is understood or implied without being spoken or explicitly stated.

For example, “There was an unspoken agreement between the friends to always have each other’s backs.”
In a relationship, one might say, “We had an unspoken understanding that we would support each other’s dreams.”
A person might describe a shared glance between two people as “carrying an unspoken message.”

56. Noise-free

Refers to a place or environment that is free from any noise or sound.

For example, “I love staying in noise-free hotels where I can relax and have a peaceful sleep.”
A person might say, “I prefer studying in a noise-free environment to concentrate better.”
In a discussion about ideal workspaces, someone might mention, “A noise-free office is essential for productivity.”

57. Silent zone

A designated space or area where noise is not allowed or should be kept to a minimum.

For instance, “The library is a silent zone where everyone is expected to maintain a quiet atmosphere.”
A sign in a hospital might indicate, “This area is a silent zone to ensure patients’ rest and recovery.”
In a school, a teacher might remind students, “The study hall is a silent zone, so please refrain from talking or making noise.”

58. Silent witness

Refers to a person who sees or witnesses something but does not speak up or provide information about it.

For example, “He was a silent witness to the crime but refused to testify in court.”
In a discussion about a controversial event, someone might say, “There were many silent witnesses who saw what happened but chose not to come forward.”
A journalist might write, “The silent witnesses in the crowd held valuable information that could have helped solve the case.”

59. Silent partner

A business partner who invests capital into a venture but does not participate in its day-to-day operations or decision-making.

For instance, “He is a silent partner in the restaurant, providing financial support while leaving the management to others.”
In a discussion about business partnerships, someone might say, “Having a silent partner can be beneficial as they contribute funds without interfering in the business.”
A business owner might seek a silent partner to expand their company without taking on additional responsibilities.

60. Silent movie

A type of film that does not have synchronized recorded sound or dialogue. It relies on visual storytelling, music, and intertitles to convey the narrative.

For example, “Charlie Chaplin was known for his silent movies that showcased his physical comedy skills.”
A film enthusiast might say, “Silent movies were a popular form of entertainment before the advent of sound in films.”
In a discussion about film history, someone might mention, “The silent movie era gave rise to many iconic actors and directors.”