deaf and dumb
/ˈdɛf ən ˈdʌm/
adjective
- An outdated and offensive term for a person who cannot hear or speak. The preferred modern terms are 'deaf' or 'hard of hearing' for hearing loss, and 'nonverbal' or 'mute' for inability to speak. Many deaf people use sign language and do not consider themselves 'dumb'.
- The term 'deaf-and-dumb' is considered disrespectful today.
- Teachers now avoid the label 'deaf-and-dumb' because it is inaccurate and hurtful.
- Old records sometimes used the phrase 'deaf-and-dumb' to describe people who used sign language.
Synonyms