As a Noun: 1. A person who is unable to hear sounds fully or accurately, especially the sounds of speech. English = hearing impaired. 2. A person who is unable to hear sounds fully or accurately, especially the sounds of speech, and who does not identify with the Deaf community. As a Verb or Adjective: 1. To be unable to hear sounds fully or accurately, especially the sounds of speech. English = (be) hearing impaired.