Tone-Deaf
/ˈtoʊnˌdɛf/noun
Lacking the ability to distinguish musical pitch accurately, or figuratively, lacking sensitivity to a situation.
Did you know?The word is a modern compound from ordinary English words, but its figurative use turns a musical disability into a sharp social accusation: you can be “tone-deaf” to meaning, emotion, or even an entire room’s energy.
Etymological Timeline
Old English
OE
tān
“a sound or musical note”
Old English
OE
deaf
“deaf; lacking hearing”
16th Century
English
tone-deaf
“unable to hear or distinguish musical tones”
19th Century
English
tone-deaf
“figuratively, insensitive to the mood or expectations of others”
Modern English
English
tone-deaf
“insensitive, especially in social or cultural contexts”