deaf-mute

noun

ˈdef-ˈmyüt 

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

1700, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

deaf-mute

noun

ˈdef-ˌmyüt

offensive

: a deaf person who cannot speak or has not been taught to speak

—used especially in the past

Medical Definition

deaf-mute

1 of 2 adjective

ˈdef-ˈmyüt 

dated, now offensive

: lacking the sense of hearing and the ability to speak

deaf-muteness noun dated, now offensive

deaf-mutism

-ˈmyüt-ˌiz-əm 

noun dated, now offensive

deaf-mute

2 of 2 noun

dated, now offensive

: a deaf person who lacks the ability to speak