There are various terms used to describe people with varying kinds of deafness.
Using the wrong words can easily offend. Culturally Deaf people do not like the term “hearing impaired”, perceiving it as negative and clinical. Hard-of-hearing people may not like the terms “Deaf” or “deaf”. Where referring to a large mixed group of people, it is appropriate to use more than one term.
If you are not sure which term to use, please check with the person you are talking with or about to determine which term they prefer to use.
You can have a look at our glossary list for more terminology and definitions.
