def adj. 1
wholly or
partly without hearing (deaf in
one ear). 2 (foll. by to) refusing to
listen or
comply. 3
insensitive to
harmony,
rhythm, etc. (tone-deaf). ødeaf-aid
Brit. a hearing-aid. deaf-and-dumb
alphabet (or
language etc.) =
sign language ° Sign language is preferred in
official use. deaf as a post completely deaf. deaf
mute a deaf
and dumb person.
fall on deaf ears be ignored.
turn a deaf ear (usu. foll. by to) be
unresponsive. øødeafly adv. deafness n. [OE deaf f. Gmc]