mutismo

mutism; silence

noun moo-TEES-moh Rare

Origin: From Latin mutus (mute, silent).

Usage Note

Mutismo is a formal or literary word for a state of complete silence or refusal to speak. In medicine it can describe selective mutism. In political or journalistic contexts, el mutismo del gobierno criticises an official failure to respond — stronger and more deliberate-sounding than silencio.

Examples

"El testigo mantuvo un absoluto mutismo ante el juez."

Natural Translation

The witness maintained absolute silence before the judge.

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