Quiet: Definition, Meaning, and Examples

Last Updated on
June 25, 2025

1. Quiet (adjective): Making little or no noise; calm or silent.
2. Quiet (adjective): Free from disturbance, activity, or commotion.
3. Quiet (noun): The state of being calm, silent, or free from noise or disturbance.
4. Quiet (verb): To make or become calm or silent.

The term "quiet" conveys a sense of calmness, stillness, or absence of noise. It is frequently used to describe environments, behaviors, and emotional states.

"Quiet" Definition: What Does "Quiet" Mean?

"Quiet" is a versatile word that emphasizes silence, calm, and lack of disturbance. Below are its primary meanings and contexts.

Definition of "Quiet": Absence of Noise

"Quiet" refers to situations or things that produce little or no sound, such as "a quiet room."

Definition of "Quiet": Calm and Peaceful

It also describes conditions or states that are tranquil or free from commotion, like "a quiet neighborhood."

Definition of "Quiet": State of Silence

As a noun, "quiet" denotes the condition of being calm or free from noise, as in "enjoying the quiet of the morning."

Definition of "Quiet": To Calm or Silence

As a verb, "quiet" means to make something calm or silent, as in "The mother quieted the baby with a lullaby."

Parts of Speech

"Quiet" functions as an adjective, noun, and verb. As an adjective, it describes a lack of noise or disturbance. As a noun, it signifies the state of calmness or silence. As a verb, it refers to the action of calming or silencing.

How to Pronounce "Quiet"?

The pronunciation of "quiet" emphasizes the first syllable and ends softly.

To pronounce "quiet," begin with "kwai," rhyming with "eye," and follow with "et," as in "pet."

Phonetic Pronunciation: /ˈkwaɪ.ət/

Synonyms of "Quiet": Other Ways to Say "Quiet"

Synonyms for "quiet" emphasize calmness, stillness, or silence.

  • Silent
  • Peaceful
  • Tranquil
  • Serene
  • Calm
  • Hushed
  • Still
  • Muted
  • Restful
  • Placid

Antonyms of "Quiet": Other Ways to Say "Quiet"

Antonyms highlight noise, activity, or disturbance.

  • Noisy
  • Chaotic
  • Loud
  • Boisterous
  • Clamorous
  • Rowdy
  • Raucous
  • Unsettled
  • Busy
  • Turmoil

Examples of "Quiet" in a Sentence

Using "quiet" in sentences highlights its versatility in describing states, actions, or characteristics. Here are ten examples:

1. The library was so quiet you could hear a pin drop.
2. She enjoyed the quiet of the early morning before the city woke up.
3. The teacher asked the students to quiet down before the lesson began.
4. The countryside is known for its quiet and peaceful atmosphere.
5. He spoke in a quiet voice to avoid waking the baby.
6. They took a quiet walk along the beach at sunset.
7. The manager managed to quiet the room with a simple gesture.
8. The quiet before the storm was unnerving.
9. She preferred to work in a quiet environment to focus better.
10. The children played quietly while their parents talked.

Frequency of Use

The term "quiet" is commonly used in English, appearing frequently in descriptions of environments, behaviors, and emotional states. Its versatility ensures widespread use in both written and spoken language.

Variants of "Quiet"

Variants of "quiet" adapt its use for different contexts or grammatical forms.

1. Quietly (adverb): In a quiet or calm manner.
2. Quietness (noun): The state of being quiet or silent.
3. Quieter (adjective): Comparative form, indicating less noise or disturbance.

Related Terms to "Quiet"

Related terms expand the understanding of "quiet" as a concept.

1. Silence
2. Stillness
3. Peace
4. Calm
5. Hush
6. Tranquility
7. Serenity
8. Restfulness
9. Composure
10. Solitude

Etymology: History and Origins of "Quiet"

The word "quiet" originates from the Latin word quietus, meaning "at rest" or "peaceful." It was adopted into Old French as quiet and later into Middle English with its current meanings. Over time, its usage has expanded to include physical silence, emotional calmness, and the absence of disturbance.

Derivatives and Compounds of "Quiet"

"Quiet" has derivatives and compounds that extend its application in various contexts.

1. Quietude: A state of being quiet and calm.
2. Quietism: A philosophy or attitude emphasizing peace and stillness.
3. Quiet hour: A designated time for silence or calm.

Common Misspellings of "Quiet"

Misspellings of "quiet" often result from phonetic similarities or typographical errors.

1. Quite
2. Quet
3. Quit

10 Idioms Similar to "Quiet"

Idioms related to calmness, silence, or peace align with the concept of "quiet."

1. As quiet as a mouse
2. Peace and quiet
3. Keep it down
4. Hush up
5. Button your lip
6. On the down-low
7. Hold your tongue
8. Silence is golden
9. Still as a statue
10. A moment of silence

10 Common Questions About "Quiet"

Here are some commonly asked questions about "quiet":

1. What does "quiet" mean?

It means making little or no noise or being free from disturbance.

2. Is "quiet" a noun or an adjective?

It can be both, as in "a quiet place" (adjective) and "enjoying the quiet" (noun).

3. Can "quiet" be a verb?

Yes, as in "to quiet a noisy room," meaning to make calm or silent.

4. What is the adverb form of "quiet"?

The adverb form is "quietly."

5. What does "peace and quiet" mean?

It refers to a calm and undisturbed state.

6. Is "quiet" positive or negative?

It is typically positive but can be neutral or negative, depending on context.

7. What is a synonym for "quiet"?

Synonyms include silent, calm, and tranquil.

8. What is the opposite of "quiet"?

The opposite is noisy or chaotic.

9. How do you use "quietly" in a sentence?

Example: "She quietly entered the room to avoid waking anyone."

10. Can "quiet" describe emotions?

Yes, it can describe calmness or lack of turmoil, such as "a quiet confidence."

Conclusion

"Quiet" describes states of calmness, silence, or the absence of disturbance. Its versatility makes it applicable in physical, emotional, and metaphorical contexts. Explore more word definitions to enhance your understanding of descriptive language.

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