Deafening silence Meaning in English
expression
Definition
A very strong or obvious silence, often used to emphasize how noticeable and uncomfortable the lack of sound or response is in a situation.
Usage & Nuances
This is an idiomatic expression, not literal—nobody is actually deaf. Often used in situations where a response is expected but none comes. Common in both formal and informal English. Typical collocations: 'a deafening silence followed his question', 'there was a deafening silence in the room.'
Example Sentences
There was a deafening silence in the room after the announcement.
basic
When he asked the question, a deafening silence filled the class.
basic
After she left, there was a deafening silence at the table.
basic
You could feel the deafening silence right after he dropped the bombshell.
natural
Her joke was met with deafening silence—nobody laughed.
natural
There was a deafening silence when no one volunteered for the task.
natural