# earshot

/ˈiɹˌʃɑt/ (US) · /ˈiəʃɒt/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/earshot
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

the distance where you can still hear someone speaking in a normal voice. If you are within earshot, you can hear the conversation.

For teachers: the range or distance within which speech remains audible without amplification. Typically occurs in the phrases 'within earshot' and 'out of earshot'.

## Examples

- The baby sleeps within earshot of her parents.
- They lower their voices when the children play within earshot in the next room.
- He waits until the guard moves out of earshot before sharing the plan with his fellow prisoners.

## Usage notes

- Appears almost only in the fixed phrases 'within earshot' and 'out of earshot'.

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