Definition

The quality of being reserved or not revealing one's thoughts or feelings easily.

Example

Her secretiveness made it difficult for her friends to understand her true feelings.

Conversation

I noticed you’ve been a bit more quiet lately, is everything okay?

Yeah, I’ve just been feeling a little overwhelmed with things.

I get that, but you know, secretiveness can make it harder to connect with others.

You're right; maybe I should share what's on my mind more often.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Secretiveness → It is formed from "secret" (from Latin "secretus", meaning hidden or concealed) and "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "secretiveness" refers to the quality of being secretive or inclined to keep things hidden.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'secret' meaning something that is 'hidden' and the suffix '-ness' indicating a state or quality. This helps you remember that secretiveness is the quality of being hidden or not revealing information.

Visually Confused Words