Note that individuals formerly calleddeaf-mute are rarely actually unable to speak and hence are merely deaf. The inability to speak is related to either choice or the unavailability of educational resources for the deaf. Thus, the preferred term now is simplydeaf.
1959 September, K. Hoole, “The Middlesbrough-Newcastle route of the N.E.R.: Part Two”, inTrains Illustrated, page417:
This buckling was first noticed by adeaf-mute who was walking over a bridge across the line and he pointed it out to the driver of a steamroller which happened to be passing.
1974 April 20, “Beacon Hill Murder”, inGay Community News, page 1:
Andrew was studying to become a teacher ofdeaf-mutes.
Note that individuals formerly calleddeaf-mutes are rarely actually unable to speak and hence are merely deaf. The inability to speak is related to either choice or the unavailability of educational resources. Thus, the preferred term now is simplydeaf person.
