deaf-mute

noun

plural deaf-mutes
dated, now offensive
: a deaf person who lacks the ability to speak

Note: The term deaf-mute is considered offensive in its implied suggestion that deaf people are not able to communicate.

deaf-mute adjective dated, now offensive

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1837, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of deaf-mute was circa 1837

Dictionary Entries Near deaf-mute

Cite this Entry

“Deaf-mute.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deaf-mute. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

deaf-mute

noun
ˈdef-ˌmyüt
often offensive
: a deaf person who cannot speak or has not been taught to speak

Medical Definition

deaf-mute

1 of 2 adjective
dated, now offensive
: lacking the sense of hearing and the ability to speak
deaf-muteness noun dated, now offensive
deaf-mutism noun dated, now offensive

deaf-mute

2 of 2 noun
dated, now offensive
: a deaf person who lacks the ability to speak

More from Merriam-Webster on deaf-mute

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