acquiescence, while laches may result from conduct that is not voluntary. Silence is acquiescence (aka. silent acquiescence and acquiescence by silence). Under this related doctrine, when confronted with a wrong or an act that can be considered a tortious act, one's silence in the face of the transgression may result in a loss of a right to make a claim for loss or damage, on the principle of consent inferred from accepting or permitting the wrongful acts without protest or claim. See also Nonacquiescence, an unrelated legal doctrine Qui tacet consentire videtur Adverse possession Acceptance References Equitable defenses Legal doctrines and principles