deafening

UK: ˈdefənɪŋ | US: ˈdefənɪŋ

Definition

  1. adj. extremely loud

  2. adj. overwhelming or overpowering in effect

  3. v. present participle of "deafen" (to make deaf or unable to hear)

Structure
deafen <to make deaf>ing <present participle suffix>
Etymology

The word "deafening" originates from the verb "deafen," which combines "deaf" (from Old English dēaf, meaning "lacking hearing") with the suffix "-en" (a verb-forming suffix meaning "to cause to be"). The "-ing" suffix turns it into a present participle or adjective. The term evolved metaphorically to describe sounds so loud they seem capable of causing deafness, later extending to figurative uses (e.g., "deafening silence").

Examples

  1. The deafening roar of the jet engine made conversation impossible.

  2. A deafening applause erupted after the performance.

  3. The silence in the room was almost deafening.

  4. Construction work produced a deafening noise all morning.

  5. The crowd’s cheers were deafening when the team scored.