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 Words From

• au·dition·er noun
• reau·dition noun
• unau·ditioned 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

Since it was important to production that the character be voiced by an autistic child, Whittick reached out to the support group at Grandview Children’s Center in Ontario, Canada, a community she is a part of, and posted an open call for the audition.

From Los Angeles Times

It all makes for an interesting 'audition' for some players in this squad.

From BBC

Jamison began dancing for the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in 1965, a year after meeting the company’s namesake at a fruitless television audition.

From Los Angeles Times

He recalls feeling suspicious of the recruiter, who wanted him to film an audition tape to send to Pledis Entertainment, Seventeen’s label.

From Los Angeles Times

Selena Gomez says preparing for her latest role was "the most nervous I’ve ever been for an audition".

From BBC

Related Words

• demo
• tryout