elective mutism

[ ih-lek-tiv myoo-tiz-uhm ]

noun

, Psychiatry.

1. an unwillingness to speak in nearly all social environments, a condition not attributed to an organic speech disorder but rather to a defiant refusal that may stem from depression or trauma.

Word History and Origins

Origin of elective mutism¹

First recorded in 1945–1950

Example Sentences

He doesn’t speak, though doctors have said he can but has “elective mutism.”

From Washington Times

This can happen to children – it's called elective mutism.

From The Guardian

Mouse is an 11-year-old girl suffering from elective mutism, although she communicates to an astoundingly eloquent degree through letters, texts and scribbled messages.

From The Guardian

Until about 15 years ago, children were routinely considered to have "elective mutism," which suggests the silence is willful and controlling.

From Time Magazine Archive