Deaf-mutes are still so called, even when, by artificial methods, they have been taught to speak imperfectly. [1913 Webster]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English. 2000.
DEAF-MUTE — (Heb. חֵרֵשׁ, heresh), always classed in the Talmud together with the minor and the imbecile as being irresponsible and of no independent will, from which stem all the restrictions and exemptions applying to him, both in law and the performance… … Encyclopedia of Judaism
deaf mute — UK US noun [countable] [singular deaf mute plural deaf mutes] old fashioned someone who cannot hear or speak. This word is now considered offensive. Thesaurus: ear and hearing … Useful english dictionary
deaf-mute — def myüt adj often offensive lacking the sense of hearing and the ability to speak deaf mute·ness n, sometimes offensive deaf mut·ism myüt .iz əm n, sometimes offensive deaf mute n often offensive a deaf person who cannot speak … Medical dictionary
deaf mute — ► NOUN ▪ a person who is deaf and unable to speak. USAGE In modern use deaf mute has acquired offensive connotations. It is advisable to avoid it in favour of other terms such as profoundly deaf … English terms dictionary
deaf-mute — [def′myo͞ot΄] n. a person who is deaf, esp. from birth, and therefore unable to speak: most deaf mutes, having the necessary vocal organs, can be taught to speak adj. of or being a deaf mute … English World dictionary
deaf-mute — deaf′ mute′ usage: See dumb off. adj. 1) pat unable to hear and speak 2) off pat a person who is unable to hear and speak, esp. one in whom inability to speak is due to congenital or early deafness • Etymology: 1830–40; trans. of F sourd muet… … From formal English to slang
deaf-mute — deaf mute; deaf mute·ness; … English syllables
deaf-mute — deaf mutes N COUNT A deaf mute is someone who cannot hear or speak. This word could cause offence … English dictionary
deaf mute — is now regarded as derogatory because it implies an incapacity to communicate. It is safer to use neutral terms such as profoundly deaf … Modern English usage
deaf mute — n old fashioned, not polite someone who is unable to hear or speak … Dictionary of contemporary English
