Definition

The belief that people who can hear are better or more important than those who cannot hear.

Example

Audism can lead to discrimination against individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Conversation

Have you ever heard the term audism before?

Yeah, I think it refers to discrimination against people who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Exactly! It's surprising how often audism goes unnoticed in society.

It really is; we need to raise more awareness about it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Audism is formed from "audi" (from Latin "audire", meaning to hear) and "-ism" (meaning a doctrine or belief). The term refers to the discrimination against individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, based on the belief that hearing is superior to deafness.

Memory Tip

Think of 'audi' meaning 'to hear' and '-ism' indicating a belief — this helps you remember that audism refers to the belief that hearing is superior.

Visually Confused Words