Ague dumb is a phrase that refers to the inability to speak due to shaking or shivering caused by the sudden onset of fever. The spelling of this phrase is unique, and its pronunciation can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription. The pronunciation of ague is /ˈeɪɡju/ while the pronunciation of dumb is /dʌm/. The blend of these two words results in the unique pronunciation of ague dumb, which is /ˈeɪɡju ˌdʌm/ in IPA. This phrase is rarely used today but was a common term in the Middle Ages.
"Ague dumb" is an obsolete term, primarily used in the field of medicine, to describe a symptom characterized by the temporary loss of voice or speech that occurs during or as a result of an episode of ague or fever. The term "ague" refers to a type of fever or illness characterized by recurring intermittent episodes of chills, accompanied by shivering, followed by episodes of fever and perspiration. The specific term "ague dumb" is derived from the notion that during these fevered episodes, individuals would become mute or unable to articulate words due to the profound weakness and debilitation caused by the illness.
This condition was historically associated with various illnesses, such as malaria, in which the body goes through cycles of fever and chills. The loss of speech or voice during these bouts was believed to be a consequence of the extreme physical weakness and exhaustion suffered by the affected individuals. As medical understanding and treatment advanced, the term "ague dumb" became obsolete, as medical practitioners and researchers explored the underlying causes and specific symptoms of different febrile conditions.
While "ague dumb" is no longer used in contemporary medical terminology, the historical usage of the term reflects the understanding and observations of medical practitioners from the past, recognizing the effect of severe febrile illnesses on speech and voice function.