Si″lence (?), n. [F., fr. L. silentium. See Silent.]
1. The state of being silent; entire absence of sound or noise; absolute stillness.
I saw and heared; for such a numerous host
Fled not in silence through the frighted deep. Milton.
2. Forbearance from, or absence of, speech; taciturnity; muteness.
3. Secrecy; as, these things were transacted in silence.
The administration itself keeps a profound silence. D. Webster.
4. The cessation of rage, agitation, or tumilt; calmness; quiest; as, the elements were reduced to silence.
5. Absence of mention; oblivion.
And what most merits fame, in silence hid. Milton.