Definition

1. Noun:
   • A person with a severe auditory impairment: A "deaf person" is an individual who has a significant or profound hearing loss, often to the extent that they cannot understand speech through hearing alone.

Usage

• The term "deaf person" is a neutral, descriptive noun phrase used to refer to an individual based on their hearing status. It is important to use person-first or identity-first language respectfully, as preferences vary within the Deaf community. Some individuals prefer "person who is deaf" (person-first), while others embrace "Deaf person" (identity-first, often with a capital 'D' to signify cultural identity).

Examples

• Noun:
  • The museum offers guided tours with a sign language interpreter for deaf persons.
  • It is important to face a deaf person directly when speaking to facilitate lip-reading.
  • Many deaf persons use sign language as their primary means of communication.

Advanced Usage

• "Deaf" with a capital 'D': Often used to refer to individuals who identify with the Deaf community and culture, particularly those who use sign language as their primary language. This is an identity-first term.
  • She is a proud Deaf person and an advocate for Deaf rights.

Variants and Related Words

• Deafness (n): The condition of being deaf.
  • Congenital deafness is present from birth.
• Hard of hearing (adj): Describes a person with mild to moderate hearing loss.
  • He is hard of hearing and uses a hearing aid.
• Hearing-impaired (adj): A general term for hearing loss, though some consider it less preferred.
  • Services for hearing-impaired students are available.

Synonyms

• Person who is deaf: A person-first synonym.
• Individual with hearing loss: A more general, descriptive synonym.

Related Phrases

• Profoundly deaf: A phrase specifying a very severe level of hearing loss.
  • The child is profoundly deaf and communicates primarily through sign language.

Noun

1. a person with a severe auditory impairment