Definition

The condition of being unable to speak or communicate verbally, often due to a physical inability or a choice not to speak.

Example

His dumbness made it difficult for him to express his thoughts to others.

Conversation

Have you ever felt that kind of dumbness when you're too scared to speak up?

Yeah, it’s like my brain just freezes in those moments.

I wish I could overcome that dumbness sometimes.

Same here, but I guess it just takes practice to get more comfortable.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dumbness → It is formed from "dumb" (from Old English "dumb", meaning unable to speak) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "dumbness" refers to the state of being unable to speak or the quality of being mute.

Memory Tip

Think of the state of being 'unable to speak' — 'dumb' means unable to talk, and '-ness' indicates a quality or state.

Visually Confused Words