Antiexpressiveness

/ˌæntiɪkˈsprɛsɪvnəs/ noun

Definition

The quality or state of being opposed to clear, emotional expression or communication of feelings.

Etymology

From anti- (against) + expressiveness (the quality of being expressive). The prefix anti- comes from Latin and Greek meaning 'against,' combined with the modern English word expressiveness, which derives from express (to convey or show).

Kelly Says

This word captures an interesting cultural tension: some philosophies and movements actively valued emotional restraint and control over passionate expression, especially in certain historical periods like the Victorian era or in military training, where showing feelings was seen as weakness rather than authenticity.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.