noun
earshot
EER-shot
Earshot (noun) means the distance within which a sound can be heard. Example: “Keep your voice down — the kids are within earshot.”
noun
1
The distance within which a sound can be heard.
"Loola glances about her to make sure that nobody is within earshot, then speaks at last almost in a whisper."
— Aldous Huxley, Ape and Essence (1948)
"Keep your voice down — the kids are within earshot."
"He waited until the guard was out of earshot before speaking."
"I'll row out on the lake but stay within earshot."
How to use earshot
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishClose enough to hear, or far enough away not to be heard.
Common pairings
within earshot
out of earshot
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Word forms
- Plural
- earshots
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Keep your voice down — the kids are within _____.
Etymology
From ear plus shot, on the model of "gunshot" — as far as the "shot" of sound can carry.
Synonyms
View more →
hearing
earreach
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “earshot” mean?
The word “earshot” means the distance within which a sound can be heard. In plain terms, close enough to hear, or far enough away not to be heard.
How do you pronounce “earshot”?
“Earshot” is pronounced EER-shot (/ˈɪɹˌʃɑt/ in IPA).
How do you use “earshot” in a sentence?
Here is “earshot” used in a sentence: “Keep your voice down — the kids are within earshot.”
What part of speech is “earshot”?
“Earshot” is a noun.
