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Definition of deafness

deafness

/ˈdɛf.nəs/
deaf · ness
Adjective:deaf
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deafness Lexical Profile

deafness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The condition of lacking the power of hearing, or of having significantly impaired hearing.

Example

"Prolonged exposure to loud industrial machinery without ear protection can lead to permanent deafness."

2

An unwillingness or refusal to listen, heed, or respond to an appeal, argument, or criticism.

Example

"The administration was criticized for its apparent deafness to the concerns of local residents."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for deafness
Antonyms
View all antonyms for deafness

• Nearby Words

deafeningly
deafish
deafly
deafness
deal
dealbreaker
dealer

Word Origin & Etymology

From Old English 'deafnes', formed from the adjective 'deaf' (of Proto-Germanic origin) combined with the suffix '-nes' indicating a state or condition.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Deafness. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/deafness
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