non-verbal

American  

[nahn-vur-buhl] / ˌnɑnˈvɜr bəl /

adjective

1. (of communication) not spoken.

2. (of a person, especially someone with an intellectual or developmental disability) unable to speak or unable to use language.

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noun

plural

non-verbals

1. a physical act that communicates something without speech, especially a conventional one such as a gasp of surprise or a nod of agreement.

Other Word Forms

• non-verbally
  adverb

Example Sentences

She was reported missing several hours later, prompting a large-scale search for the youngster, who was non-verbal.

From BBC • May 6, 2026

But his younger brother Jack, who is autistic and non-verbal, will only be eligible to apply sometime after 6 April when he finishes being home schooled.

From BBC • Apr. 5, 2026

"It is a way of asserting women's place in a world and a system that remains deeply patriarchal," stressed Centeno, an expert in non-verbal communication.

From Barron's • Jan. 31, 2026

Tammy hopes Tate can undergo intensive speech and language therapy to use a device enabling him to communicate, as he is non-verbal.

From BBC • Jan. 28, 2026

Various tags are used to name them under the heading of parapsychology, magic, and non-verbal communication.

From The Civilization of Illiteracy by Nadin, Mihai