Hearing

Definition

Hearing refers to the ability to perceive sound through the ears, a process facilitated by the auditory system. It can also denote a legal proceeding where evidence is presented. Additionally, it may describe the opportunity to be heard or understood.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb (present participle of "hear")

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈhɪrɪŋ/
• Respelling: HEER-ing

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈhɪərɪŋ/
• Respelling: HEER-ing

Etymology

The word "hearing" originates from the Old English "hieran" or "heran," meaning "to perceive by the ear or listen." It is derived from the Proto-Germanic "*hauzjaną*" and the Proto-Indo-European root "*kous-" (to hear). The noun form developed later to describe auditory perception and legal proceedings.

Derivatives

• Hearer (noun)
• Auditory (adjective)
• Hearing-impaired (adjective)
• Overhearing (verb/noun)
• Mishearing (noun)

Synonyms

• Listening
• Audition
• Trial (legal context)

Antonyms

• Deafness
• Silence
• Inaudibility

Usage

The word "hearing" is used in various contexts, including auditory perception and legal proceedings. For example, "Her hearing was sharp enough to catch the faintest sounds," or "The judge scheduled a hearing for next week."

Related Terms

• Auditory: Related to hearing or the sense of sound.
• Perception: The ability to interpret sensory information.
• Trial: A formal legal process to determine the outcome of a case.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The ability to perceive sound: Refers to the sense that detects vibrations in the air through the auditory system.
  • Example: "He lost his hearing due to prolonged exposure to loud noises."
• A legal proceeding to present evidence: Describes a formal meeting in a court or legal setting.
  • Example: "The defendant attended a preliminary hearing."
• The opportunity to be heard or understood: Refers to giving or receiving attention or consideration.
  • Example: "She demanded a fair hearing for her concerns."

Verb (present participle of "hear")

• To perceive sound: Refers to the ongoing action of detecting auditory stimuli.
  • Example: "She was hearing the birds chirping outside."
• To listen or pay attention: Indicates actively processing sounds or words.
  • Example: "He is hearing every detail of the discussion."