Dumbness - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Dumbness refers to the state of being unable to speak, often due to a physical condition. It can also describe a lack of intelligence or foolish behavior in informal usage.
Definition:
The state of being unable to speak or lacking intelligence.
Synonyms:
muteness, stupidity, ignorance, silence
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
intelligence, eloquence
Common Collocations:
temporary dumbness, feigned dumbness, sheer dumbness, complete dumbness
Derivatives:
dumb, dumber, dumbest
Usage Tips:
Use "dumbness" to describe a lack of speech or intelligence, often in a negative or critical context.
Common Phrases:
struck dumb by fear, dumb luck, deaf and dumb
Etymology:
Derived from Old English "dumb," meaning mute or silent; later extended to imply lack of intelligence.
Examples:
- 1. His dumbness surprised everyone during the debate.
- 2. The accident left him with temporary dumbness.
- 3. She mistook his silence for dumbness.
- 4. His dumbness was due to sheer nervousness.