deafness

Definition

The condition of being deaf; the lack or loss of the ability to hear.

Etymology

From Middle English deefnesse; equivalent to deaf + -ness.

Example Sentences

• "Paul wet his lips with his tongue, read: “ ‘Think you of I the fact that a deaf person cannot hear. Then, what deafness may we not all possess? What senses do we lack that we cannot see and cannot hear another world all around us? What is there around us that we cannot—’ ”"
• "their deafness to her cries"

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