audition

[aw-dish-uhn]

noun

1. a trial hearing given to a singer, actor, or other performer to test suitability for employment, professional training or competition, etc.

2. a reading or other simplified rendering of a theatrical work, performed before a potential backer, producer, etc.

3. the act, sense, or power of hearing.

4. something that is heard.

verb (used with or without object)

1. to try or compete in an audition.

   to audition aspiring actors; to audition for the leading role.

audition

/ ɔːˈdɪʃən /

noun

1. a test at which a performer or musician is asked to demonstrate his ability for a particular role, etc

2. the act, sense, or power of hearing

verb

1. to judge by means of or be tested in an audition

Other Word Forms

• auditioner noun
• reaudition noun
• unauditioned adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of audition¹

1590–1600; (< Middle French ) < Latin audītiōn- (stem of audītiō hearing). See auditive, -ion

Word History and Origins

Origin of audition¹

C16: from Latin audītiō a hearing, from audīre to hear

Example Sentences

They’re the sort of numbers Wilson couldn’t fathom when she auditioned for the series.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

That focus carried Weinberg through many iterations of bands and even playing in pit orchestras until nailing an audition for an ad he’d answered in the Village Voice, which changed his career trajectory forever.

Read more on Salon

Once young Keaton decided she wanted to perform, she set about auditioning for everything from the church choir and the cheerleading squad to the class play.

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When he auditioned for a production of “Annie,” which features a host of kids, she and her older sister were eager to join.

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There is plenty to capture, from big auditions and band formations to hundreds of stage performances.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• demo 
• tryout