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

One actually needs to go into the forest and find a clearing. —Eric Berger, Ars Technica, 19 Dec. 2024

Like walking into the dense Amazonian jungle and suddenly finding yourself in an open clearing, the entryway is a narrow, curving driveway that spits visitors into a cavernous inner chamber. —Dalya Benor, Travel + Leisure, 18 Dec. 2024

And in that clearing, there’s a deeper exhale into herself: an existential sobriety and awareness of time passing, making everything glisten in a new light. —Rebekah Pahl, Los Angeles Times, 11 Dec. 2024

Detailed 7-day Cincinnati weather forecast Friday: Mostly cloudy through mid-morning, then gradual clearing, with a high near 34. —Haadiza Ogwude, The Enquirer, 6 Dec. 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