Deaf Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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deaf
[dɛf ]
Definitions
medical
Unable to hear or having impaired hearing.
Synonyms
hard of hearing, hearing-impaired.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| deaf |
Typically used to describe a person who has a significant loss of hearing. It can refer to those who were born without hearing or those who lost it later in life.
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| hearing-impaired |
An older term that is often considered less polite and more negative compared to 'hard of hearing' or 'deaf'. It suggests a deficiency rather than a condition.
|
| hard of hearing |
Describes individuals who have some degree of hearing loss but do not rely exclusively on sign language. It's a more polite and accurate term compared with 'hearing-impaired'.
|
Examples of usage
- She was born deaf and communicates using sign language.
- He became deaf after a childhood illness.
medical
A person who is unable to hear or has impaired hearing.
Synonyms
deaf person, hearing-impaired person.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| deaf |
Can sometimes be used in a metaphorical sense to imply someone is ignoring or not responding to a plea or advice.
|
| hearing-impaired person |
A more formal and clinical term that describes someone with reduced ability to hear. This term is often used in medical or legal contexts.
|
| deaf person |
A respectful way to describe someone who has significant hearing loss. Often used to emphasize the person, rather than their condition.
|
Examples of usage
- The school for the deaf provides specialized education for students with hearing loss.
- She learned sign language to communicate with her deaf grandmother.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Many Deaf individuals use sign language as their primary means of communication, creating a rich cultural community.
- Deaf culture celebrates unique traditions such as storytelling through sign and deaf theater, illustrating the vibrancy of their identity.
- Sign languages are not universal; they vary significantly between different countries and communities, showcasing linguistic diversity.
Medical Facts
- Hearing loss can occur from various causes, including genetics, aging, and exposure to loud noises.
- Around 466 million people worldwide have disabling hearing loss, emphasizing the need for improved accessibility.
- Assistive technologies like hearing aids and cochlear implants can help some individuals improve their hearing capabilities.
Psychology
- Research shows that Deaf individuals often develop strong visual-spatial skills and may excel in tasks requiring visual processing.
- The experience of being Deaf can instill a unique perspective on communication and interaction, impacting social behavior.
- Studies indicate that the brain processes sign language in a similar way to how it processes spoken language, highlighting its complexity.
Pop Culture
- Movies such as 'A Silent Voice' and 'Sound of Metal' bring attention to the challenges and experiences of Deaf individuals.
- Several prominent activists and artists, like Marlee Matlin, have helped raise awareness for the Deaf community through their work.
- Popular media often portrays Deaf characters reflecting varied experiences, which has sparked conversations around representation in film and television.
Origin of 'deaf'
Main points about word origin
- The word came from Old English 'deaf,' which meant 'deprived of hearing.'
- It is linked to the Proto-Germanic root 'daubaz,' indicating a lack of ability to hear.
- Historically, 'deaf' was sometimes used more broadly to include those who were unable to understand spoken language.
The word 'deaf' comes from the Old English 'deaf', which is of Germanic origin. The term has been used for centuries to describe individuals with hearing loss or the inability to hear. Throughout history, deaf communities have developed unique forms of communication, such as sign language, to overcome barriers to traditional spoken language. Advances in technology, education, and awareness have improved the quality of life for many deaf individuals.