deaf-and-dumb

[ def-uhn-duhm ]

adjective

, Offensive.

1. deaf-mute ( def 1 ).

deaf-and-dumb

adjective

1. unable to hear or speak

noun

1. a deaf person without speech

Usage

Using deaf-and-dumb to refer to people without speech is considered outdated and offensive, and should be avoided.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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of deaf-and-dumb¹

1150–1200; Middle English def and doumb

Example Sentences

Before he meddled with it, it used to talk back like a mother-in-law, but now it was only fit for the deaf-and-dumb asylum.

From Project Gutenberg

Goose-Skin runs after the trouvere, and imitating the gestures of the deaf-and-dumb, indicates that he pledges himself to silence.

From Project Gutenberg

This time Raissa had her little deaf-and-dumb sister with her.

From Project Gutenberg

The last column inquired whether the householder was “Deaf-and-dumb, blind, imbecile, or lunatic?”

From Project Gutenberg

This may be a reason why Sophy, with her deaf-and-dumb child in her arms, seemed to stand silent by me all through my nap.

From Project Gutenberg