Pronunciation: [kˈɒtənmˌa͡ʊðd] (IPA) 
The word "cottonmouthed" is spelled with two t's, one o, two n's, one m, one u, one th, and two e's. The pronunciation of the word is ˈkɑtənˌmaʊðd, with the stress on the first syllable. This word refers to the feeling of dryness in one's mouth that is often associated with anxiety or stress. The origins of the term can be traced back to the cottonmouth snake, whose venom can cause similar symptoms in humans.
"Cottonmouthed" is an adjective used to describe the physical sensation of dryness or stickiness experienced in the mouth, often accompanied by difficulty in speaking. It is derived from the term "cottonmouth," which refers to a venomous snake species commonly found in the southeastern United States, characterized by its white mouth lining that resembles cotton.
When someone is cottonmouthed, they usually feel a distinct lack of saliva or a thick coating in their mouth, which can make articulating words or swallowing uncomfortable. The condition is often associated with nervousness, anxiety, stress, or intense physical exertion. Some common symptoms of being cottonmouthed include a parched or sticky sensation in the mouth, a reduced saliva production, a hoarse or muffled voice, and occasional difficulty in enunciating or forming words.
The term "cottonmouthed" is not solely limited to its physiological manifestations; it is also utilized metaphorically to describe someone who appears to be speechless or at a loss for words due to shock, surprise, or astonishment. In this sense, it suggests a similar manifestation of dryness or tightness in the throat, preventing coherent speech.
Overall, "cottonmouthed" encompasses both the physical and metaphorical notions of dryness or speechlessness, describing the discomfort in the mouth or the inability to express oneself clearly.
The word "cottonmouthed" is believed to be a compound word that combines "cotton" and "mouthed". "Cotton" refers to the plant and fiber of the cotton plant, which is known for its softness. "Mouthed" is derived from the verb "mouth" which means to utter or speak. In the context of "cottonmouthed", it is used to describe a condition where one's mouth feels dry, often associated with fear, anxiety, or nervousness. This can be compared to the feeling of dryness associated with touching cotton, thus giving rise to the term "cottonmouthed". The exact origin of the term is unclear, but it has been in use since the mid-20th century.
