silent treatment

NOUN

ignoring of another

Synonyms

WEAK

blackballing cold shoulder ignore someone ignoring ostracism ostracization sending to Coventry

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

We don’t like confrontation, in daily life at least, and we are masters of the silent treatment, hidden meanings and passive aggression.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 20, 2026

He did not want to speak after Saturday's round, but he did and in so doing broke his silent treatment of the media.

From BBC • Jun. 16, 2025

As his teammates continued to give him the silent treatment, Ohtani raised his arms and waved them.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 12, 2024

“I’m not really understanding what the silent treatment is,” Drescher said.

From Seattle Times • Aug. 24, 2023

When they fight, he gives her the silent treatment.

From "Enrique's Journey" by Sonia Nazario