Tongue-tied meaning

Being tongue-tied means to be unable to speak due to nervousness or shyness.


Tongue-tied definitions

Word backwards deit-eugnot
Part of speech adjective
Syllabic division tongue-tied - tongue-tied
Plural The plural of tongue-tied is tongue-tied.
Total letters 10
Vogais (4) o,u,e,i
Consonants (4) t,n,g,d

A person who is described as "tongue-tied" may have a condition known as ankyloglossia, where the band of tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth is unusually short or tight. This can restrict the range of motion of the tongue, potentially interfering with speech, feeding, and oral hygiene.

Causes of Tongue-Tied

The primary cause of being tongue-tied is a short lingual frenulum, the band of tissue that connects the bottom of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. This condition can be present at birth and may result from genetic factors. In some cases, the restriction may resolve on its own over time as the child grows.

Effects of Tongue-Tied

Individuals who are tongue-tied may experience difficulties with speech articulation, particularly with sounds that require the full range of motion of the tongue. They may also have challenges with tasks such as licking an ice cream cone or playing a wind instrument. In infants, tongue-tie can interfere with breastfeeding and proper latching.

Treatment for Tongue-Tied

For individuals with significant symptoms, treatment for tongue-tie may involve a simple surgical procedure called a frenotomy or frenuloplasty. This procedure involves cutting the lingual frenulum to allow the tongue to move more freely. Speech therapy may also be recommended to address any lingering speech difficulties.

Signs and Symptoms of Tongue-Tied

Signs of being tongue-tied include difficulty sticking out the tongue past the lips, difficulty moving the tongue from side to side, and a heart-shaped tongue tip when extended. In infants, symptoms may include poor weight gain, difficulty latching, and excessive fussiness during feeding.

Consulting a Professional

If you suspect that you or your child may be tongue-tied, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional. They can evaluate the condition and recommend appropriate treatment options to improve tongue function and overall quality of life.


Tongue-tied Examples

  1. During the interview, she became tongue-tied and couldn't find the right words to answer the questions.
  2. When he saw his crush, he suddenly became tongue-tied and couldn't even say hello.
  3. The shy student was often tongue-tied when asked to speak in front of the class.
  4. After receiving the award, the actor was so overwhelmed with emotions that he was completely tongue-tied during his acceptance speech.
  5. She was usually outspoken, but in that moment, she found herself tongue-tied and unable to defend herself.
  6. The politician was caught off guard by the reporter's unexpected question, leaving him tongue-tied and unable to respond.
  7. As he looked into her eyes, he felt his heart race and his mind go blank, making him tongue-tied.
  8. The comedian's jokes were always on point, but when faced with a tough crowd, he became tongue-tied and stumbled over his words.
  9. In the heat of the argument, he became tongue-tied and couldn't articulate his thoughts clearly.
  10. Even though he had rehearsed his lines dozens of times, he still became tongue-tied during the play's opening night.


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  • Updated 08/05/2024 - 03:30:39