earshot

American  

[eer-shot] / ˈɪərˌʃɒt /

noun

1. the range or distance within which a sound, voice, etc., can be heard.

---

earshot British  

/ ˈɪəˌʃɒt /

noun

1. the range or distance within which sound may be heard (esp in the phrases within earshot, out of earshot )

---

Etymology

Origin of earshot

First recorded in 1600–10; ear ¹ + shot ¹

Example Sentences

By then the couple was out of earshot, but the man’s “enough please” comment lingered.

From Salon • May 22, 2026

In accordance with government media regulations, AFP was accompanied by an army officer, who stepped out of earshot during interviews.

From Barron's • Apr. 22, 2026

Within his opponent's earshot, Zverev repeatedly said that the Spaniard was cramping and not injured, and therefore should not receive any treatment.

From BBC • Jan. 30, 2026

It could easily be mistaken for an expression of anger, but watching how others in the area—pedestrians, other drivers—react, it’s a signal: a warning to anyone within earshot that ICE is moving through the neighborhood.

From Slate • Jan. 16, 2026

They move down the hall and out of earshot.

From "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen

Related Words

• area
• dimension
• field
• length
• matter
• scope
• space
• spectrum
• territory