1
: not able or willing to speak
The defendant stood mute [=silent] during questioning.
She knew the answer, but she decided to remain mute. [=silent]
We just sat there, mute [=speechless], unable to explain what happened.
The scientists have been mute [=they have not said anything] about the results of the tests.
mute witnesses
2
: felt or expressed without the use of words
They hugged each other in mute sympathy.
I could see a mute plea for help in his eyes.
plural mutes
1
sometimes offensive
: a person who cannot speak
2
: a device on a musical instrument (such as a trumpet) that makes its sound much softer
mutes; muted; muting
1
a
: to make (a sound) softer or quieter
They covered their ears to mute [=muffle] the sound of the guns.
We muted our voices.
b
: to make (something, such as a television) silent
He used the remote control to mute the TV.
2
: to make (something) softer or less harsh
The loud colors in this room need to be muted.
He muted his criticism of the president. [=he expressed his criticism less harshly]
Cite this Entry
“Mute.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/mute. Accessed 16 Apr. 2026.
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