The word "mute" has multiple meanings, depending on its context.
1) In a general sense, it means unable to speak or produce sound due to lack of ability or loss of voice. For example, "He lost his voice and was mute for three days."
2) It can also refer to something that is silent or without sound. For instance, "The movie theater was so quiet you could hear a pin drop - it was as mute as a church mouse."
3) In its legal context, being mute means not having the power of speech or language. This usually refers to someone who cannot communicate verbally due to physical disability or mental illness.
4) Lastly, "mute" can also be used in reference to something that is without sound or noise, such as a television set with the volume turned off being referred to as mute.