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

Now, this quarter’s results could be a clearing event that could reestablish momentum. —Shannon Carroll, Quartz, 28 May 2025

However, because Baltimore City owns a tiny portion of the city’s vacants — about 10% according to a 2022 study — policies that improve the city’s vacant clearing process are not enough. —Daniel Brennan, Baltimore Sun, 27 May 2025

This book explores everything from space clearing and goal-writing to elemental work. —Holly Corbett, Forbes.com, 26 May 2025

O'Connor also notes Biden's frequent throat clearing compared to last year. —Meredith Deliso, ABC News, 19 May 2025

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