What exactly does it mean to be non-verbal?

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Does it mean to be completely unable to speak, or does it mean that you can say a few words, but not really understand them and use them to communicate? I've seen autistic people be described as non-verbal despite them having the ability to speak.

In the strictest sense it means unable to say words. Sounds yes but not words. But usually understand what is being said by others.

I my case I can say one or two words here and there, but I can't speak sentences or have a conversation. I didn't start saying words until I was 8.

There's also nonfunctional echolalia where a person repeats what they hear but not for a communicative purpose.

Right yeah I've seen/heard someone do that and I do it myself sometimes.