n.  briefness or conciseness in speech or writing.

adj. using few words in speaking or writing

adj. using few words in speech

adj. brief and full of meaning and substance; concise

adj. quiet; still; inactive

adj.  not talking much; reserved

adj.  clearly and briefly stated; concise

adj.  silent; sparing of words; close-mouthed

adj.  using only the words that are needed to make the point; very concise, sometimes to the point of rudeness.

1. Mia wanted details about Joyce's new boyfriend, but got only a terse description.
2. Terse speakers make dull lecturers.
3. The principal's terse reply was clear:  "No dogs at school."