ENGLISH
REFERENCE

screening

n.
US //ˈskɹinɪŋ// UK //skɹˈiːnɪŋ// screen·ing
  1. 1 showing a film (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    an occasion when a film is shown to an audience.

    the act of projecting a motion picture or broadcasting a television programme for an audience.

    Example

    The cinema is holding a special screening of the classic movie tonight.

    Example

    The documentary received its first public screening at the international film festival, followed by a lengthy discussion with the director.

    Usage

    Often used with 'of' to indicate the film being shown.

  2. 2 medical testing (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Medicine

    a test to check for a disease or health problem before symptoms appear.

    the systematic testing of an asymptomatic population to detect a specific disease or condition at an early stage.

    Example

    Regular health screening can help find problems before they become serious.

    Example

    The government launched a national screening programme to identify citizens at high risk for cardiovascular disease.

    Usage

    Often functions as an uncountable noun or as a modifier in compound nouns like 'cancer screening'.

Show 2 more sensesShow fewer
  1. 3 checking people or things (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the process of checking people to see if they are suitable for a job or safe to enter a place.

    the evaluation or vetting of individuals or objects to determine suitability, security risk, or quality.

    Example

    Airport security involves the screening of all passengers and their bags.

    Example

    The recruitment agency performs a rigorous screening of all candidates before recommending them to the client.

    Usage

    Commonly used in security and human resources contexts.

  2. 4 mesh material (n.)
    C1 Advanced American English

    a wire or plastic mesh used to cover windows or doors to keep insects out.

    a material consisting of a mesh of wire or plastic, typically used in the construction of screens for windows and doors.

    Example

    We need to replace the screening on the back door because it has a hole.

    Example

    The porch was enclosed with fine bronze screening to provide a bug-free environment while allowing the breeze to pass through.

    Teacher's tip

    In British English, people are more likely to say 'mesh' or 'netting' for the material itself.

Origin

From screen + -ing.

© 2026 English Reference