Pronunciation: [hˈə͡ʊ] (IPA) 
The word "HOH" is typically spelled out by each of its individual letters. The pronunciation of this word can be broken down using the IPA phonetic transcription as "heɪ oʊ ˈeɪtʃ." The first two sounds, "heɪ oʊ," represent the sounds of the letters H and O. The final sound, "ˈeɪtʃ," represents the letter H again. "HOH" is often used as an acronym for "hard of hearing" or "hearing impaired," particularly in online forums and support groups.
HOH is an abbreviation that stands for "hard of hearing." It is used to describe individuals who have a certain degree of hearing loss but still possess some level of hearing ability. Often, people who are HOH can benefit from the use of hearing aids, cochlear implants, or other assistive listening devices to enhance their hearing. However, the level and type of hearing loss can vary among individuals who identify as HOH.
The term HOH is commonly employed in the context of health care and disability services to refer to people with a range of hearing impairments, from mild to moderate or severe. It is important to note that being HOH does not necessarily mean complete deafness, as individuals with complete hearing loss are referred to as deaf. HOH individuals may experience difficulties understanding soft sounds, hearing conversations in noisy environments or over long distances, or discerning high-frequency sounds.
The term HOH emphasizes that individuals possess some level of hearing capacity while acknowledging their hearing loss. It helps advocate for inclusivity and understanding of the unique needs and experiences of this specific group. By recognizing and respecting the challenges faced by HOH individuals, society can actively work towards creating a more accessible and equitable environment for them to thrive in.
