speechless

Definition

Not speaking; not knowing what to say; silent, especially due to surprise, amazement, etc.; wordless.

Etymology

From Middle English specheles, from Old English sprǣċlēas (“speechless; without the power of speak”), from Proto-Germanic *sprēkalausaz, equivalent to speech + -less. Cognate with West Frisian sprakeleas (“speechless”), Dutch sprakeloos (“speechless”), German Low German spraaklos (“speechless”), German sprachlos (“speechless”).

Example Sentences

• "When he walked into his surprise birthday party, he was completely speechless."
• "The attack was so unwarranted and delivered with such venom that his unpreparedness for it left him speechless."
• "Immortal Pleaſures round my ſwimming Eyes did dance, And ſpeechleſs Joys, in whoſe ſweet Tumult toſt, I thought my Breath, and my new Being loſt."