1. makes someone unable to hear, either temporarily or permanently
Usage: third person singular present tense of ‘deafen’
2. makes a very loud noise that overwhelms hearing
Usage: often used figuratively

Examples

• The explosion deafens everyone within a mile radius.
• Loud music at concerts sometimes deafens audience members temporarily.
• The roar of the jet engine deafens the ground crew.
• Construction noise deafens residents in the nearby apartments.
• The thunder deafens us during the storm.
• Prolonged exposure to machinery deafens factory workers over time.