hear Definition
- 1to perceive with the ear the sound made by (someone or something)
- 2to listen to (someone or something)
- 3to be told (something)
- 4to be informed or aware of (something)
- 5to be called upon to adjudicate on or to listen to evidence or argument
Using hear: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "hear" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
I can't hear what you're saying.
Example
I heard a strange noise in the night.
Example
I heard that you're moving to a new city.
Example
Have you heard the news about the election?
Example
The judge will hear the case tomorrow.
hear Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using hear
to be ignored or disregarded, typically used for requests or advice that are not heeded
Example
I've been telling him to quit smoking for years, but it falls on deaf ears.
to have a natural ability to recognize and distinguish sounds or music
Example
She has a good ear for languages and can pick up new words quickly.
Example
We don't have a set schedule for the trip; we'll just play it by ear.
Phrases with hear
Example
I haven't heard from my sister in weeks.
Example
I want to hear you out before I make a decision.
Example
I heard through the grapevine that they're getting a divorce.
Origins of hear
from Old English 'hieran'
Summary: hear in Brief
The verb 'hear' [hɪr] means to perceive sound, listen to someone or something, be informed or aware of something, or adjudicate or listen to evidence or argument. Examples include 'I can't hear what you're saying,' 'Have you heard the news about the election?' and 'The judge will hear the case tomorrow.' Phrases include 'hear from,' 'hear out,' and 'hear through the grapevine.' Idioms include 'fall on deaf ears,' 'have a good ear for something,' and 'play it by ear.'