DUMB

I. adjective Etymology: Middle English, from Old English; akin to Old High German tumb mute Date: before 12th century 1. lacking the human power of speech , lacking the ability to speak, temporarily unable to speak (as from shock or astonishment) , not expressed in uttered words , silent , lacking some usual attribute or accompaniment, 6. lacking intelligence ; stupid , showing a lack of intelligence , requiring no intelligence , not having the capability to process data , see: stupid ~ly adverb ~ness noun Usage: There is evidence that, when applied to persons who cannot speak, ~ has come to be considered offensive. II. transitive verb Date: 1607 to make silent ; deaden