deafen

American  

[def-uhn] / ˈdɛf ən /

verb (used with object)

1. to make deaf.

   The accident deafened him for life.

2. to stun or overwhelm with noise.

   The pounding of the machines deafened us.

3. deaden.

4. Obsolete. to render (a sound) inaudible, especially by a louder sound.

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deafen British  

/ ˈdɛfən /

verb

1. (tr) to make deaf, esp momentarily, as by a loud noise

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Other Word Forms

• deafeningly adverb
• half-deafened adjective
• nondeafened adjective

Etymology

Origin of deafen

First recorded in 1590–1600; deaf + -en ¹

Example Sentences

Despite Evy’s mother growing less responsive each day, the house’s quiet feels deafening — the distinctly hollow sound of silence filling the place where life should be.

From Salon

It is deafeningly loud, but parents said they are willing to sacrifice privacy and quiet so their children won’t feel afraid and isolated.

From The Wall Street Journal

The fan experience was highlighted by a memorable and deafening 2009 final at Dodger Stadium featured a Japan victory over South Korea in a game that many observers said was the loudest they ever attended.

From Los Angeles Times

When a deafening drone tore a hole in her roof in northern Iraq, Iranian Kurd Amine Poursaid, gripped by fear of another attack, packed her family's belongings and prepared to escape.

From Barron's

All the dogs were screaming—high-pitched deafening screams because they were impatient and wanted to run, knowing they were heading in the direction of home.

From Literature