speechless

Speechless is an adjective describing the state of being unable to speak, typically in response to strong emotion such as surprise, shock, awe, or fear. It can also refer to a temporary absence of spoken communication in a given situation, as when someone is overwhelmed or deliberately silent.

The term is formed from the noun speech and the suffix -less, meaning without. Thus, speechless literally denotes a lack of speech.

In everyday language, a person is described as speechless when they have no words to express their reaction. The idiom "left speechless" conveys being overwhelmed. In medical or linguistic contexts, speechlessness may be described as difficulty speaking or as aphasia, a language impairment, though this is distinct from ordinary emotional astonishment.

Culture and media usage: The phrase "speechless" has been used as a title for various works in film, television, and music, and it appears in numerous song lyrics and literary titles. As an idiom, it remains a common descriptor for moments of profound astonishment or awe.