Definition of mute

The word "mute" comes from the Old French word "muet," which evolved from the Latin word "mutus," meaning "dumb" or "silent." In the Middle Ages, "muet" referred to a person who was physically unable to speak, such as someone born with a speech impediment or who had lost their voice due to illness or injury. Over time, the meaning of the word expanded to refer to anyone who voluntarily chooses not to speak, such as actors playing silent roles in a theater production or individuals who prefer not to communicate verbally in certain situations. Today, "mute" can also be used as a verb to describe the act of silencing or muting a sound, such as muting a television or computer speaker to avoid disturbing others.