Deaf Community Terminology

adjective lacking the power of hearing or having impaired hearing

• The school implemented sign language classes to accommodate deaf students.
• My neighbor is deaf, but she can still communicate through lip reading.
• I heard that new movie is so good, it will make you go deaf from all the explosions!
• The loud music at the concert was so intense, it was like being temporarily deafened.

noun a form of communication using hand gestures and movements instead of spoken words

• Handspeak is a form of communication that involves using gestures and signs with one's hands.
• I can handspeak with my friend across the room without saying a word.
• Some people are so good at handspeak, they can have a whole conversation without speaking.
• His handspeak was so expressive that I could feel his emotions without him saying a word.