Deaf vs. deaf: Understanding the Cultural and Audiological Distinction

deaf (lowercase) – Audiological condition: severe hearing loss affecting communication; includes those with some residual hearing.

Deaf (capitalized) – Cultural identity: member of the Deaf community, using American Sign Language (ASL), sharing a distinct culture based on deaf experience.

All Deaf people are deaf, but not all deaf people identify as Deaf. Some prefer spoken language or don't align with Deaf culture.