Inarticulate

/ˌɪn.ɑːrˈtɪk.jə.lɪt/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Unable to speak distinctly or express oneself clearly.

After the traumatic experience, she was inarticulate, struggling to find the right words.

Not having the ability or capacity to express thoughts and ideas verbally.

His inarticulate responses made it clear that he was unprepared for the interview.

Characterized by the inability to speak with clarity; producing unclear speech or sounds.

The inarticulate murmurs of the crowd created a sense of confusion during the event.

From Latin 'inarticulatus', from 'in-' (not) + 'articulatus' (articulated).

inarticulate speech

speech that is unclear or poorly articulated.

inarticulate feelings

feelings that are difficult to express in words.

articulate

able to express thoughts and ideas clearly and effectively.

mumble

to speak quietly and unclearly.

tongue-tied

unable to speak freely due to nervousness.

Gibberish

When he tried to explain, it just came out as gibberish.

Mushmouth

He's got a mushmouth when he's nervous, can't say a word right.