mutism

[ myoo-tiz-uhm ]

noun

, Psychiatry.

1. an inability to speak, due to a physical defect, conscious refusal, or psychogenic inhibition.

mutism

/ ˈmjuːtɪzəm /

noun

1. the state of being mute
2. psychiatry
   1. a refusal to speak although the mechanism of speech is not damaged
   2. the lack of development of speech, due usually to early deafness

Word History and Origins

Origin of mutism¹

From the New Latin word mūtismus, dating back to 1815–25. See mute, -ism

Example Sentences

Selective mutism can start at any age but most often begins in early childhood between the ages of two and four.

From BBC

The girl already experienced anxiety and selective mutism, which made her unable to scream out or call for help during the attack, according to the suit.

From Los Angeles Times

When Daisy-Mae was growing up her family thought she was just shy, but her crippling silence around strangers was actually selective mutism.

From BBC

Researchers also noted that PAG lesions, in particular, case mutism in humans — indicating the essential role the area plays in vocal communication.

From Salon

He told jurors the boy had been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and selective mutism, and gradually stopped speaking after his arrest, giving evidence by typing on a keyboard and speaking through an intermediary.

From BBC