1. people who advocate for or practice oralism, especially in deaf education where speech and lip-reading are emphasized over sign language
Usage: education; deaf studies
2. people who specialize in or prefer oral communication and storytelling traditions
Usage: general

Examples

• The oralists believed that deaf children should learn to speak rather than use sign language.
• Many oralists in the 19th century opposed the use of manual communication in schools.
• The debate between oralists and supporters of sign language continues today.
• Traditional oralists passed down stories through spoken word rather than written text.
• Some oralists argue that lip-reading skills are essential for integration into hearing society.
• The conference brought together oralists and sign language advocates to discuss educational approaches.