silence

(noun) the state of being silent (as when no one is speaking). Examples: "There was a shocked silence." "He gestured for silence."

(noun) the absence of sound. Synonyms: quiet. Examples: "He needed silence in order to sleep." "The street was quiet."

(noun) a refusal to speak when expected. Synonyms: muteness. Example: "His silence about my contribution was surprising."

(noun) the trait of keeping things secret. Synonyms: secrecy, secretiveness.

(verb) cause to be quiet or not talk. Synonyms: hush, quieten, still, shut up, hush up. Example: "Please silence the children in the church!."

(verb) keep from expression, for example by threats or pressure. Example: "All dissenters were silenced when the dictator assumed power."