Meaning & Definition of word "Listening"
Listening
/ˈlɪs.ən.ɪŋ/
noun:
- 1. The act of paying attention to sound or speech.
- Example: His listening skills have improved since he started attending workshops.
- 2. A session or the practice of listening.
- Example: The listening part of the exam will test your comprehension abilities.
verb:
- 1. The action of receiving sound through the ears.
- Example: Listening to music helps me relax after a long day.
- 2. The action of paying attention to someone speaking.
- Example: Active listening is essential for effective communication.
- 3. The act of making an effort to hear and understand what others are saying.
- Example: She is listening carefully to the instructions provided by her teacher.
Etymology
●The word 'listening' is derived from the Old English 'hlysnan', which means to 'hear'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
active listening:
Fully concentrating on what is being said rather than just passively hearing the message.
listening in on:
To hear or overhear a conversation without the speakers being aware.
listening ear:
Someone who pays attention and is sympathetic, especially to problems.
Related Words
hearing:
The ability to perceive sounds.
auditory:
Relating to the sense of hearing.
attention:
The act of focusing the mind on a specific object, thought, or activity.
Slang Meanings of listening
Meaning: Tuning in
● Example Sentence: I'm tuning in to what she's saying while I'm working.
Meaning: Getting the scoop
● Example Sentence: I was getting the scoop on the latest gossip during lunch.