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

Moments later, a second rocket motor kicks in with a deafening roar.

From BBC

Inside the Principality, the noise was deafening, The head thudded, the ears split.

From BBC

But there were no mistakes here with a truly showstopping routine that drew deafening cheers from the crowd.

From BBC

In these circumstances, the deafening buzz of the everyday finally reduces to a faint, pleasant hum.

From Salon

Taking to the ice last to a deafening roar from the crowd in a shimmering all-black costume featuring gold details the skater known as the 'Quad God' was in difficultly early in his programme.

From Barron's