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 of clearing

• pardon
• forgiveness
• vindication
• acquittal
• exoneration

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

Filmed over 20 days, together with some help from Ghana’s navy who appear as fishermen, the feature originated from a short Martinson made in response to the clearing of Jamestown’s fishing community for a new seaport. —Thinus Ferreira, Variety, 2 Mar. 2026

In a state Capitol often threaded with thorny partisan debate and sharp ideological branches, Colorado lawmakers and advocacy groups from opposite ends of the political spectrum have found a clearing of common ground. —Seth Klamann, Denver Post, 2 Mar. 2026

Tracy Price, a multigenerational Palisades resident, described how historic fuel break programs and mechanical clearing on adjacent lands were discontinued decades ago. —Michelle Edgar, Daily News, 27 Feb. 2026

Cloudy during the early evening, then gradual clearing, with a low around 17. —Sarah Moore, Freep.com, 27 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing clearing

• clearing bank

Rhymes for clearing

• cheering
• earing
• earring
• fearing
• gearing
• hearing
• jeering
• leering
• nearing
• peering
• rearing
• searing

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