Lip reading, also known as speechreading, is the ability to understand speech by visually interpreting the movements of the lips, face and tongue when normal sound is not available. 

What is the meaning of lip reading?

Lip reading is used by people who are deaf or hard of hearing to understand speech. It relies also on information provided by the context, knowledge of the language, and any residual hearing.

How is lip reading used?

Lip reading can be used by people who have normal hearing in noisy environments. Lip reading can be a helpful tool for communication, but it is not a perfect substitute for hearing.

Is it normal to be able to read lips?

Yes, it is normal to be able to read lips to some extent. Even people with normal hearing use lip reading to help them understand speech in noisy environments. However, people who are deaf or hard of hearing often need to rely on lip reading more heavily.

Can you teach yourself to lip-read?

Yes, you can teach yourself to lip-read. There are many resources available to help you learn, including books, online courses, and lip reading classes. However, it is important to remember that lip reading takes time and practice to develop.

Here are some tips for learning to lip-read:

• Start by learning the basic visemes, which are the visual patterns that correspond to different speech sounds.
• Practice lip reading in a variety of settings, including quiet and noisy environments.
• Pay attention to the context of the conversation, as well as the speaker’s facial expressions and body language.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help from a lip reading instructor or a friend or family member who is willing to help you practice.

With time and practice, you can learn to lip-read effectively and improve your communication skills.