1. People who believe that deaf individuals should communicate primarily through spoken language and hearing aids rather than sign language; practitioners or advocates of audism.
Usage: plural of audist; often used critically within Deaf communities; related to the concept of audism, discrimination based on hearing ability

Examples

• Deaf advocates argue that audists often underestimate the value of sign language in education.
• Some audists believe that cochlear implants are the best solution for deaf children.
• The conference brought together both audists and members of the Deaf community to discuss communication approaches.
• Critics say audists prioritize assimilation into hearing culture over Deaf cultural identity.