Audience

/ˈɔːdiəns/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The assembled spectators or listeners at a public event, such as a play, movie, concert, or speech.
The audience applauded loudly at the end of the performance.
A group of people within a specified target who consume media content or engage with a particular message.
The marketing team is trying to reach a younger audience with their new campaign.
An opportunity to be heard or to speak to someone important.
The ambassador granted an audience to the visiting dignitary.
The public or a specific segment of the population that has an interest in a particular subject.
The documentary aims to raise awareness among a wider audience about climate change.

Etymology

From Latin 'audientia', meaning 'hearing', from 'audire', meaning 'to hear'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

captive audience
An audience that is entirely focused and cannot leave.
target audience
A specific group of people identified as intended recipients of an advertisement or message.
audience participation
Involvement of the audience in a performance or discussion.

Related Words

spectator
A person who watches at a show, game, or other event.
listener
A person who listens, especially to a radio broadcast.
viewer
A person who watches something, especially television or a video.

Slang Meanings

The crowd that gathers for a concert or show.
The band was excited to see such a huge audience at their concert.
A group of people giving attention, often in a humorous context.
The comedian's jokes fell flat with the audience tonight.