Definition

A method of teaching deaf or hearing-impaired individuals to communicate using spoken language and lip-reading instead of sign language.

Example

Oralism focuses on helping deaf students learn to speak and read lips.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of oralism in teaching methods?

Yeah, I read that it's a way to help deaf people communicate using speech.

Exactly! Some people really believe it's more effective than sign language.

That makes sense, but I think both methods have their own strengths.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Oralism is formed from "oral" (from Latin "oralis", meaning relating to the mouth) and "-ism" (a suffix used to denote a practice or philosophy). The term refers to a method of communication that emphasizes the use of spoken language, particularly in the context of teaching deaf individuals to use their voices and lip-read.

Memory Tip

Think of 'oral' relating to the mouth, and remember that 'oralism' is about using spoken language and communication.

Visually Confused Words