noun

deafness

DEHF-nuhs

Deafness (noun) means the condition of being unable, or only partly able, to hear. Example: “Her deafness developed gradually over several decades.”

noun

The condition of being unable, or only partly able, to hear.

"Her deafness developed gradually over several decades."

"Childhood deafness can affect how a person learns language."

A refusal to acknowledge or notice an obvious problem.

"His deafness to criticism eventually cost him the job."

How to use deafness

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe state of being deaf, literally or (figuratively) refusing to notice something.

Common pairings

hearing loss and deafness congenital deafness

Word forms

deafnesses plural

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Test yourself on “deafness” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Her _____ developed gradually over several decades.

Etymology

From Old English roots, formed from deaf plus the suffix -ness.

Origin: Old English

Synonyms

View more →

hearing loss

Frequently asked questions

What does “deafness” mean?

The word “deafness” means the condition of being unable, or only partly able, to hear. In plain terms, the state of being deaf, literally or (figuratively) refusing to notice something.

How do you pronounce “deafness”?

“Deafness” is pronounced DEHF-nuhs (/ˈdɛfnəs/ in IPA).

How do you use “deafness” in a sentence?

Here is “deafness” used in a sentence: “Her deafness developed gradually over several decades.”

What part of speech is “deafness”?

“Deafness” is a noun.

Where does the word “deafness” come from?

The word “deafness” comes from Old English. From Old English roots, formed from deaf plus the suffix -ness.

How many meanings does “deafness” have?

“Deafness” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the condition of being unable, or only partly able, to hear.