prelingually deaf

/ priːˈlɪŋɡwəlɪ /

adjective

1. 1. deaf from birth or having acquired deafness before learning to speak
   2. ( as collective noun; preceded by the )

      the prelingually deaf

Example Sentences

The generationally or prelingually Deaf, with their mastery of sign language, sit at the highest rungs, while some students are seen as not Deaf enough, particularly those who wear hearing aids or cochlear implants.

From New York Times

Micah was prelingually deaf, meaning his deafness preceded language.

From New York Times