hearing definition

1. (law) a proceeding (usually by a court) where evidence is taken for the purpose of determining an issue of fact and reaching a decision based on that evidence
2. an opportunity to state your case and be heard
• examples: they condemned him without a hearing
• examples: he saw that he had lost his audience
3. a session (of a committee or grand jury) in which witnesses are called and testimony is taken
• examples: the investigative committee will hold hearings in Chicago
4. the ability to hear; the auditory faculty
• examples: his hearing was impaired
5. able to perceive sound