deafen

verb

deaf·​en ˈde-fən How to pronounce deafen (audio)
deafened; deafening ˈde-fə-niŋ How to pronounce deafen (audio)
ˈdef-niŋ
 ; deafens

transitive verb

: to make permanently or temporarily deaf
was deafened by the explosion

Examples of deafen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Retrofitted rat traps that fired Hollywood blanks meant to deafen and deter. — Literary Hub, 22 June 2026 Their courage quickly wavers in the face of the location’s eerie atmosphere and the deafening sound of cicadas. — Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 2 July 2026 Each of his goals set off a deafening roar from the Brazilian fans (and some Brazilian media members in the press box). — Miami Herald, 24 June 2026 The pure jubilation from Norway fans across the stands was in deep contrast to the deafening silence of my section. — Ben Church, CNN Money, 6 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for deafen

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1586, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of deafen was circa 1586

Browse Nearby Words

deaf-ear crab
deafen
deafening
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Deafen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deafen. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

deafen

verb
deaf·​en ˈdef-ən How to pronounce deafen (audio)
deafened; deafening -(ə-)niŋ How to pronounce deafen (audio)
: to make deaf
deafeningly
-(ə-)niŋ-lē
adverb

Medical Definition

deafen

verb
deaf·​en ˈdef-ən How to pronounce deafen (audio)
deafened; deafening -(ə-)niŋ How to pronounce deafen (audio)

transitive verb

: to make permanently or temporarily deaf

More from Merriam-Webster on deafen

Nglish: Translation of deafen for Spanish Speakers

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