n.1. The sense by which sound is perceived; the capacity to hear.
2. Range of audibility; earshot.
3. An opportunity to be heard.
4. Law a. A legal proceeding in which evidence is taken and arguments are given as the basis for a decision to be issued, either on some preliminary matter or on the merits of the case.
b. A session, as of an investigatory committee or a grand jury, at which testimony is taken from witnesses.