Definitions

1. noun

A system of educating the deaf in which lip-reading and speech are emphasized, and sign language is discouraged.

“The school’s use of oralism has been criticized by the deaf community for being ineffective.”

2. noun

The practice of communicating or teaching primarily through speech, as opposed to sign language or writing.

“The oralist approach to language instruction has its benefits and drawbacks.”

3. adjective

Relating to or emphasizing speech, especially in teaching or communication with the deaf.

“Oralism has been a dominant approach in deaf education for centuries.”