Mutism


The inability or unwillingness to speak. A person who is mute cannot or does not care to talk. Someone who was mute was said to be dumb, not in the sense of being stupid, but in the sense of being devoid of the power of speech. The term “mutism” is specifically applied to people who, due to profound congenital (or early) deafness, are unable to use articulate language and so are affected by deaf-mutism. The word “mutism’ comes from the Latin “mutus” meaning unable to speak.

Read Also:

  • Mutism, akinetic

    A state in which a person is unable to speak (mute) or move (akinetic). Akinetic mutism is often due to damage to the frontal lobes of the brain.

  • Mutism, elective

    Complete lack of speech (mutism) that is believed to be volitional (willed) on the part of the patient. True elective mutism may be a reaction to a traumatic event, the aftermath of an injury to the mouth or throat, particularly if it is painful, or a symptom of extreme shyness. In some cases, the lack […]

  • MVP

    In medicine, not the most valuable player but mitral valve prolapse.

  • Myalgia

    Pain in the muscles or within muscle ’tissue.

  • Myalgia, epidemic

    Also known as Bornholm disease, this is a temporary illness that is a result of virus infection. The disease features fever and intense abdominal and chest pains with headache. The chest pain is typically worsened by breathing or coughing. The illness usually lasts from 3 to 14 days. The most common virus causing Bornholm disease […]


Disclaimer: Mutism definition / meaning should not be considered complete, up to date, and is not intended to be used in place of a visit, consultation, or advice of a legal, medical, or any other professional. All content on this website is for informational purposes only.