How to pronounce deafness
Say it like DEF-nus. Deafness has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (DEF).
- DEF
- nus
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Deafness pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- DEFSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- nusKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of deafness
American and British speakers say deafness in essentially the same way: /ˈdɛfnəs/ in the US and /ˈdɛfnəs/ in the UK.
British respelling: DEF-nus.
What does deafness mean?
- The condition of being deaf; the lack or loss of the ability to hear.
- Lack of knowledge or refusal to admit a particular problem, issue, etc.“their deafness to her cries”
Where does deafness come from?
From Middle English deefnesse; equivalent to deaf + -ness.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
- hearing loss
Questions about saying deafness
How do you pronounce deafness?
Say DEF-nus. The American pronunciation is /ˈdɛfnəs/. In British English it is /ˈdɛfnəs/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in deafness?
Deafness has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (DEF). Broken into parts: DEF · nus.
Do Americans and Brits say deafness the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈdɛfnəs/ and the British form is /ˈdɛfnəs/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.