laconic
/ləˈkɒnɪk/adjective
Using very few words when speaking or writing, often in a dry or unemotional way.
Example sentences
- “Her laconic reply of "maybe" told us nothing about her plans.”
- “The laconic farmer answered most questions with "yep" or "nope."”
- “His laconic style made his rare jokes even funnier.”
From Laconia, the region around ancient Sparta, whose people were famous for short replies. Compare 'terse', which often sounds rude, while 'laconic' usually sounds calm or dry.