Silencing Charm

The Silencing Charm (Silencio) is a charm that renders the victim temporarily mute. It works on both Beasts and Beings. It is taught to fifth-year students at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in Charms. In order for this charm to be most effective, the witch or wizard must move their wand using a sharp jab, rather than a sort of wave, as was attempted by Ron during class.

Hermione Granger used this spell on Antonin Dolohov during the Battle of the Department of Mysteries to prevent him from alerting the other Death Eaters as to her, Harry Potter, and Neville Longbottom's location. He was not neutralized, however, as he subsequently struck Hermione with a curse nonverbally, however this probably saved her life as the spell was not as powerful non-verbally.

Voldemort used this on the defenders of Hogwarts twice during the Battle of Hogwarts, but thanks to Harry's sacrificial protection, it didn't hold.

Etymology
It is suggested that it comes from the English word "silence", the Italian word "silenzio", or the Spanish word "silencio".

Appearances

 * Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (film)
 * Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
 * Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
 * Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2

Notes and references
Sortilège de Mutisme