Meaning & Definition of word "Listening"
to
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.