1. (law) a proceeding (usually by a court) where evidence is taken for the purpose of determining an issue of fact and reaching a decision based on that evidence
2. an opportunity to state your case and be heard;
"they condemned him without a hearing"
"he saw that he had lost his audience"
3. the range within which a voice can be heard;
"the children were told to stay within earshot"
4. the act of hearing attentively;
"you can learn a lot by just listening"
"they make good music--you should give them a hearing"
5. a session (of a committee or grand jury) in which witnesses are called and testimony is taken;
"the investigative committee will hold hearings in Chicago"