The word "speechlessness" is spelled with two "s" sounds and three "e" sounds. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled /ˈspiːtʃləsnəs/. The first syllable is pronounced with a long "ee" sound, followed by a "ch" sound and a short "uh" sound. The second syllable features a long "e" sound and the final syllable contains a short "uh" sound and a soft "s" sound. Overall, the spelling of "speechlessness" clearly reflects the way it is pronounced.
Speechlessness is a state of being rendered incapable of verbal expression or the act of being unable to speak due to various reasons such as astonishment, shock, or overwhelming emotions. It refers to the inability to articulate thoughts, ideas, or feelings verbally, resulting in a temporary or prolonged silence.
Speechlessness often occurs when individuals encounter unexpected or momentous events that leave them utterly surprised, astonished, or perplexed. It is commonly experienced in situations where one's comprehension is challenged beyond words, when events unfold in an unforeseen manner, or when emotions become so intense that words fail to capture their magnitude. The feeling of speechlessness may manifest as a sudden hush, an open-mouthed silence, or a stunned and vacant expression.
This state of being can also arise in contexts where individuals are overwhelmed by a profound sense of awe or admiration. In the presence of extraordinary achievements, breathtaking beauty, or remarkable talent, speechlessness may be the natural response as words prove insufficient to convey their appreciation or admiration.
Speechlessness can be transient, lasting only for a few moments, or it can endure for longer periods, inhibiting one's ability to communicate effectively. While silence can convey its own message and can be a powerful form of expression, speechlessness typically indicates a temporary inability to communicate verbally rather than a deliberate choice to remain silent.
In summary, speechlessness is the state of being unable to speak, often caused by astonishment, shock, or overwhelming emotions, where words fail to adequately capture one's thoughts or feelings.
The state of being speechless.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "speechlessness" is formed from the combination of the base word "speech" and the suffix "-less".
The word "speech" has its origins in Old English "spǣċ" which means "eloquence, ability to speak or express thoughts". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "spēkōną" which means "to speak" and further to the Proto-Indo-European root "*speh₁-", also meaning "to speak".
The suffix "-less" is derived from Old English "-lēas" and denotes the absence or lack of something. It can also be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "*laisaz" meaning "empty, void".
Combining these two elements, "speechlessness" refers to the state or condition of being without speech, or the inability to express oneself verbally.