deaf-mute

[ def-myoot ]

adjective

1. unable to hear and speak.

noun

1. a person who is unable to hear and speak, especially one in whom inability to speak is due to congenital or early deafness.

deaf-mute

noun

1. a person who is unable to hear or speak See also mute 1 mutism

adjective

1. unable to hear or speak

Usage

Using this word to refer to people without speech is considered outdated and offensive, and should be avoided. The phrase profoundly deaf is a suitable alternative in many contexts

Sensitive Note

See dumb.

Derived Forms

• ˈdeaf-ˌmuteness, noun

Other Words From

• deaf-muteness deaf-mutism noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of deaf-mute¹

First recorded in 1830–40; translation of French sourd-muet

Word History and Origins

Origin of deaf-mute¹

C19: translation of French sourd-muet

Example Sentences

When I auditioned for my high school musical, Carnival, they cast me as a deaf-mute.

From The Daily Beast

It is the work of a deaf-mute, 212 Flix Martin, well named, for he is most happy in this work.

From Project Gutenberg

His interest in two deaf-mute sisters led him to his life-work.

From Project Gutenberg

Then, pretending to be a deaf-mute, he would go among them to learn something of their customs and pick up the language.

From Project Gutenberg

The fourth day it happened that the deaf mute paid his accustomed visit, after which Prince Dolor's spirits rose.

From Project Gutenberg

Get out of the tower he could not; the ladder the deaf mute used was always carried away again and his food was nearly gone.

From Project Gutenberg