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Definitions

at a loss for words

ADJECTIVE
dumb
Synonyms
STRONGEST
speechless
WEAK
inarticulate incoherent mum mute quiet silent soundless tongue-tied uncommunicative voiceless wordless
Antonyms
WEAK
speaking
ADJECTIVE
overcome
Synonyms
STRONG
affected beaten buried conquered defeated overthrown swamped taken
WEAK
blown-away bowled-over speechless swept off one's feet unable to continue
Antonyms
WEAK
indifferent unbothered unconcerned unflappable unmoved
ADJECTIVE
tongue-tied
Synonyms
STRONG
amazed astounded dazed dumbfounded garbled mute shocked shy stammering
WEAK
aghast bashful choked up dumbstruck inarticulate mum silent speechless uncommunicative voiceless

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"It was absolutely incredible. And I think everyone is sort of at a loss for words," she recalled.

From Barron's • Apr. 9, 2026

The German heavy metal singer Doro Pesch said she was "at a loss for words", adding that it had been an honour to call Campbell her friend.

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called it "absolutely heartrending" and Kohli said he was "at a loss for words" after the tragedy.

From Barron's • Nov. 6, 2025

“We are at a loss for words right now.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 26, 2025

"Anything to say, Camellia? You're usually never at a loss for words," Sophia taunts.

From "The Belles" by Dhonielle Clayton