silencio
/siˈlenθjo/
silencio is the Spanish word for silence.
silencio refers to the state of being quiet or the complete absence of sound. It can be used as an imperative command to demand that people stop talking or making noise.
Which one should you use?
While silencio serves as the general noun for silence, speakers may use other expressions depending on the context. For example, ¡Silencio! is used as an exclamation to command silence, whereas expressions like Calla or Chitón are used for more casual or informal requests for quiet.
How does it change in a sentence?
As a noun, silencio is masculine and is typically used with the definite article el to form el silencio (the silence).
How do you pronounce it?
/siˈlenθjo/
Did you know?
- While silencio is the standard word, the informal command ¡Chitón! mimics the sound of a finger being pressed to the lips.
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, a sudden, heavy silencio in a social setting is often interpreted as a sign of tension or a pending argument, whereas in English it may be viewed as mere awkwardness.
- In Spanish, the expression guardar silencio treats silence like a physical treasure to be kept or guarded rather than just a lack of noise.
Examples in context
- Se hizo un silencio absoluto en la sala.An absolute silence fell over the room.
- Había un silencio absoluto en la biblioteca.There was an absolute silence in the library.
- El silencio de la noche me relaja.The silence of the night relaxes me.
- Prefiero el silencio de la montaña.I prefer the silence of the mountains.
Example conversation
Daniel and Lucía are in a park trying to relax.
- DanielMe encanta este lugar.I love this place.
- LucíaSí, el silencio es increíble aquí.Yes, the silence is incredible here.
- DanielEs perfecto para leer un libro.It is perfect for reading a book.
- LucíaTotalmente de acuerdo, Daniel.Totally agree, Daniel.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry silencio, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
