1. unable to speak or remaining silent
2. producing no sound or very little sound

1. a person who cannot speak
Usage: sometimes considered offensive; ‘person with speech disability’ preferred
2. a device used to soften or muffle the sound of a musical instrument

1. to make something quieter or silent
2. to turn off the sound on an electronic device

Examples

• The audience remained mute during the solemn ceremony.
• He pressed the mute button on the television remote.
• The trumpet player attached a mute to soften the sound.
• She was born mute and communicates through sign language.
• The thick walls mute the noise from the street.
• Please mute your microphone during the meeting.
• The violin’s mute created a haunting, subdued tone.
• His anger left him temporarily mute with rage.