tongue-tied

[tuhng-tahyd]

adjective

1. unable to speak, as from shyness, embarrassment, or surprise.

2. affected with tongue-tie.

tongue-tied

adjective

1. speechless, esp with embarrassment or shyness

2. having a condition of tongue-tie

Word History and Origins

Origin of tongue-tied¹

First recorded in 1520–30; tongue + tie ( def. ) + -ed ² ( def. )