mute
The audience was asked to mute their phones during the performance.
This means to turn off the sound on their phones.
Unable to speak or make sound
The singer was temporarily mute after the surgery.
The singer could not speak after the surgery.
Can refer to a person or a device.
To silence or reduce the volume of something
She muted the TV because the baby was sleeping.
She turned down the volume on the TV.
Commonly used with electronic devices.
To make something less noticeable or effective
The scandal was muted by the media.
The media downplayed the scandal.
Used figuratively to describe reducing impact.
Collocations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Common Usage
'Mute' as a verb is often used with technology, like muting a call or video.
Gold Rule
Verb vs. Adjective
As a verb, 'mute' means to silence. As an adjective, it describes something silent.
Word Origin
From Old French 'mut', from Latin 'mūtus' meaning 'silent'.
Usage Notes
As a verb, 'mute' often refers to reducing sound. As an adjective, it describes something silent.