deaf-and-dumb

[def-uhn-duhm]

adjective

Offensive.

1. deaf-mute.

deaf-and-dumb

adjective

1. unable to hear or speak

noun

1. a deaf person without speech

Usage

Using deaf-and-dumb to refer to people without speech is considered outdated and offensive, and should be avoided. The phrase profoundly deaf is a suitable alternative in many contexts

Sensitive Note

See dumb.

Word History and Origins

Origin of deaf-and-dumb¹

1150–1200; Middle English def and doumb