voicelessness
|voice-less-ness|
/ˈvɔɪsləsnəs/
lack or absence of voice
Etymology
'voicelessness' is a Modern English formation from the adjective 'voiceless' plus the noun-forming suffix '-ness'.
'voiceless' was formed in Middle English from 'voice' + the suffix '-less' (meaning 'without'), and 'voicelessness' developed by adding '-ness' to express the state or condition.
Initially used for the literal absence of voice or vocal vibration, the term's meaning expanded to include figurative senses such as lack of representation or power.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the state or quality of being without voice; absence of vocal sound or vocal-fold vibration (used in phonetics).
In phonetics, voicelessness describes consonants produced without vocal-fold vibration.
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Noun 2
a figurative condition in which people or groups lack the power, representation, or opportunity to express themselves.
The voicelessness of marginalized communities was evident in the policy discussions.
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Last updated: 2025/12/05 09:00