nonvocal
adjective
non·vo·cal
ˌnän-ˈvō-kəl 
: not vocal: such as
a
: not uttered by the voice
nonvocal communication
b
: not relating to, composed or arranged for, or sung by the human voice
nonvocal music recordings
c
: not having or exercising the power of producing voice, speech, or sound
nonvocal patients
d
: not outspoken
How does the nonvocal majority make a difference?—
Denise Barbour
Denise BarbourExamples of nonvocal in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
In 2020 scientists compared phylogenies of around 1,800 vocal and nonvocal species and estimated that acoustic communication arose roughly 100 million to 200 million years ago in association with nocturnal activity.
—Rachel Nuwer, Scientific American, 25 Oct. 2022
In recent years, scientists have tested various species and found evidence that nonvocal learners such as sea lions and bonobos have rhythm too.
—Quanta Magazine, 22 Mar. 2016
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Rachel Nuwer, Scientific American, 25 Oct. 2022
In recent years, scientists have tested various species and found evidence that nonvocal learners such as sea lions and bonobos have rhythm too.
—Quanta Magazine, 22 Mar. 2016
Cite this Entry
“Nonvocal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nonvocal. Accessed 24 Jul. 2025.
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