First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
deaf
adjective \ˈdef, dial ˈdēf\
: not able to hear
: not willing to listen to or consider something
Full Definition of DEAF
1
: lacking or deficient in the sense of hearing
2
: unwilling to hear or listen : not to be persuaded <was overwrought and deaf to reason>
— deaf·ish \ˈde-fish\ adjective
— deaf·ly adverb
— deaf·ness noun
See deaf defined for English-language learners
See deaf defined for kids
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Origin of DEAF
Middle English deef, from Old English dēaf; akin to Greek typhlos blind, typhein to smoke, Latin fumus smoke — more at fume
DEAF Defined for Kids
deaf
adjective \ˈdef\
Definition of DEAF for Kids
1
: wholly or partly unable to hear
2
: unwilling to hear or listen <She was deaf to all suggestions.>
— deaf·ness noun
Medical Dictionary
deaf
adjective \ˈdef\
Medical Definition of DEAF
: lacking or deficient in the sense of hearing
—deaf·ness noun
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