1. complete absence of sound
2. a period of time without speaking or making noise
3. failure or refusal to speak about something

1. to make someone or something quiet or stop making noise
2. to prevent someone from expressing their opinions or speaking out

Examples

• The silence in the library was broken by a cough.
• After the argument, there was an uncomfortable silence.
• The witness maintained his silence during questioning.
• Please silence your phone during the movie.
• The government tried to silence the protesters.
• A moment of silence was observed for the victims.
• The teacher silenced the noisy classroom with a stern look.