clearing

noun

clear·​ing ˈklir-iŋ 

1

: the act or process of making or becoming clear

2

: a tract of land cleared of wood and brush

3

: the settlement of accounts or exchange of financial instruments especially between banks

Synonyms

• acquittal
• exculpation
• exoneration
• vindication

Examples of clearing in a Sentence

the clearing of the table

the clearing of wood and brush from part of the forest

We found a clearing in the forest.

Recent Examples on the Web

The claim: UnitedHealthcare CEO shooter identified as 'Samuel H. Ide' A Dec. 5 Instagram post (direct link, archive link) shows an image of a man in a black T-shirt and glasses holding a rifle in a wooded clearing. —Andre Byik, USA TODAY, 6 Dec. 2024

In New York City, rainfall will likely drench parade-goers in the morning, with clearing expected by midafternoon. —Yaakov Katz, Newsweek, 28 Nov. 2024

Given its air speed up to 160 mph, this model works well for clearing leaves and debris like grass clippings from sidewalks, walkways, decks, and driveways, as well as your lawn on a small- or medium-sized lot. —Sandi Schwartz, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 Nov. 2024

There's more space in the room, or the space that is there is brighter, as though a clearing away has happened. —Outside Online, 30 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing clearing

• clearing bank

Kids Definition

clearing

noun

clear·​ing ˈkli(ə)r-iŋ 

1

: the act or process of making or becoming clear

2

: an area of land cleared of wood and brush