deafness

Etymology

From deaf +‎ -ness.

Pronunciation

• (UK) IPA^(key): /ˈdɛfnəs/

Noun

deafness (countable and uncountable, plural deafnesses)

1. The condition of being deaf; the lack or loss of the ability to hear.
2. (figuratively) Lack of knowledge or refusal to admit a particular problem, issue, etc.

   their deafness to her cries

See also

• anosmia
• blindness