黙る

• Reading: だまる
• Romaji: damaru
• Kanji breakdown: 黙 (moku/damaru) — silence, be quiet
• Pronunciation: /da.ma.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To be silent; to say nothing. Ceasing to speak or remaining quiet.

A Group 1 (godan) intransitive verb. Used when someone stops talking (急に黙る, to suddenly go silent), stays quiet (黙っている, to remain silent), or does something without saying anything (黙って出かける, to leave without a word). The imperative 黙れ is a blunt command meaning 'Be quiet!' Related to 沈黙 (silence).

Examples

1. 先生が教室に入ると、生徒たちは黙った。 When the teacher entered the classroom, the students went silent.
2. 彼は何も言わずに黙っていた。 He stayed quiet without saying anything.
3. 黙って聞いてくれるだけでありがたい。 I'm grateful that you just listen without saying a word.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, emotions, social situations

Tone: serious

Origin & History

The kanji 黙 combines 黒 (black/dark) and 犬 (dog). The image of a dark, silent dog — one that watches without barking. Has meant 'silence' since ancient Chinese texts.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal