Definitions of silence:

• noun:   the absence of sound

  Example: "He needed silence in order to sleep"

• noun:   the state of being silent (as when no one is speaking)

  Example: "There was a shocked silence"

• noun:   a refusal to speak when expected

  Example: "His silence about my contribution was surprising"

• noun:   the trait of keeping things secret
• verb:   keep from expression, for example by threats or pressure

  Example: "All dissenters were silenced when the dictator assumed power"

• verb:   cause to be quiet or not talk

  Example: "Please silence the children in the church!"

• name:  A surname (very rare: popularity rank in the U.S.: #78146)