Hearing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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hearing

[ˈhɪrɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

sense

The ability to perceive sounds through the ear. Hearing is one of the five human senses and plays a crucial role in communication, safety, and enjoyment of the environment.

Synonyms

audition, sense of hearing.

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Word Description / Examples
hearing

Used to describe the faculty or sense of perceiving sound. It can also be used in a legal context to describe a session where a judge listens to statements or arguments in a case.

  • Her hearing was so acute that she could hear a pin drop from across the room.
  • The court held a hearing to decide on the matter.
audition

Often used in the context of performing arts, where a person performs to showcase their skills, typically for a role in a play, film, or musical group.

  • She was nervous before her big audition for the movie role.
  • The band held auditions to find a new guitarist.
sense of hearing

Refers specifically to the ability to perceive sound, often used in a more medical or scientific context.

  • The doctor tested her sense of hearing to make sure there were no issues.
  • He relied on his sense of hearing to navigate the dark room.

Examples of usage

  • Hearing loss can significantly impact a person's quality of life.
  • She has excellent hearing and can hear even the faintest sounds.
  • The audiologist conducted a hearing test to assess the patient's auditory function.
Context #2 | Noun

legal

A legal proceeding where evidence is presented and witnesses are heard to determine the truth about a case.

Synonyms

court session, trial.

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Word Description / Examples
hearing

Typically used in situations where a preliminary examination or discussion is taking place in a legal context, but not a full trial. It can also refer to any formal meeting for discussing issues, policies, or complaints.

  • The judge scheduled a hearing to discuss the evidence.
  • They had a public hearing to address community concerns.
court session

Refers to any formal sitting of the court where legal proceedings are conducted. This term is broad and can include hearings, trials, and other judicial activities.

  • During the court session, both parties presented their arguments.
  • The court session was adjourned until next week.
trial

Specifically refers to a formal legal process where a case is examined in a court, and a judge or jury makes a decision about the outcome. Typically involves presenting evidence and witnesses.

  • The trial lasted for several weeks before the jury reached a verdict.
  • He was nervous about his upcoming trial.

Examples of usage

  • The hearing in the court is scheduled for next week.
  • The judge will listen to both parties during the hearing.
  • The hearing concluded with a decision in favor of the plaintiff.
Context #3 | Noun

public

A meeting or session where a person or organization is given the opportunity to present their views or arguments on a particular issue.

Synonyms

consultation, discussion.

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Word Description / Examples
hearing

Used in a legal or formal context where a formal proceeding or session is held to listen to arguments or evidence.

  • The judge scheduled a hearing for next week
  • There will be a public hearing on the new policy
consultation

Appropriate when seeking expert advice or discussing specific plans, usually in a professional setting.

  • I have a consultation with the doctor tomorrow
  • The company is having a consultation with their legal team
discussion

Suitable for general conversations where two or more people exchange ideas or opinions, often in an informal or neutral setting.

  • We need to have a discussion about our holiday plans
  • There was a lively discussion in the meeting

Examples of usage

  • The public hearing on the proposed construction project drew a large crowd.
  • The city council held a hearing to gather feedback from residents on the new policy.
  • The hearing provided a platform for diverse opinions to be heard.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Humans can typically hear frequencies from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz, with sensitivity varying across ages.
  • The ear has three main parts: the outer ear, middle ear, and inner ear, each playing a role in sound processing.
  • Hearing is crucial for language development in children, influencing speech and social skills.

Pop Culture

  • Songs about listening and hearing, like 'I Can Hear Music,' celebrate the importance of sound in our lives.
  • Sound-based video games, where players rely on hearing to navigate challenges, showcase its critical role in entertainment.
  • In movies, sound effects enhance emotional storytelling, proving how vital hearing is to the cinematic experience.

Health

  • Hearing loss can affect anyone and can be caused by aging, noise exposure, or medical conditions.
  • Regular hearing checks are essential, especially for older adults, to identify any potential issues early.
  • Using hearing aids or cochlear implants can significantly improve quality of life for those with hearing impairments.

Psychology

  • Hearing influences our emotions; certain sounds can evoke memories or feelings, like nostalgia from a childhood song.
  • Studies show that background music can affect concentration and mood, highlighting the psychological power of sound.
  • Tinnitus, a condition where individuals hear ringing or buzzing with no external sound source, can increase anxiety and stress.

Origin of 'hearing'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'hyrnan,' which means to perceive sound.
  • Many languages have unique words for hearing; in Latin, it's 'audire,' which also relates to auditory.
  • As a concept, hearing has ancient roots linked to communication and interaction.

The word 'hearing' originates from the Old English word 'hieran', meaning 'to listen, to obey'. Over time, the meaning evolved to include the sense of perceiving sound through the ear. The concept of legal hearings dates back to ancient civilizations, where the process of presenting evidence and witnesses to determine the truth was established. In modern times, hearings play a crucial role in legal proceedings, public consultations, and decision-making processes.


See also: hear, hearsay, rehearing, rehearse, unheard.

Word Frequency Rank

At #998 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.