mutism

 
Pronunciation: /ˈmjuːtɪz(ə)m/

noun

[mass noun]
  • inability to speak, typically as a result of congenital deafness or brain damage.
  • (in full elective mutism) unwillingness or refusal to speak, arising from psychological causes such as depression or trauma.

Origin:

early 19th century: from French mutisme, from Latin mutus 'mute'