# mouthed

/ˈmaʊðd/ (US) · /mˈaʊðd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/mouthed
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

to move your lips as if you are speaking, but without making any sound. You often do this when you want to tell someone something secretly.

For teachers: to form words with the lips without using the voice. Often used to communicate silently in situations where noise is prohibited or impossible.

## Examples

- She mouthed the words 'thank you' from across the room.
- During the school play, the teacher stood in the wings and silently mouthed the lines to the nervous actors.
- As the noisy train pulled away from the platform, he desperately mouthed a final message to his friend through the thick glass window.

## Usage notes

- The verb is transitive and requires a direct object, typically the words or message being conveyed.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.