What Root Means Hearing?

The root word that means hearing is aud.

According to the provided reference from Reading Rockets, the Latin root word aud means “to hear or listen.” While aud is not an English word on its own, it serves as the base for many common English words related to hearing or listening.

Understanding the Root 'aud'

Root words are fundamental building blocks in language. They often come from ancient languages like Latin or Greek and carry a core meaning. The root aud is a prime example from Latin, directly linking words to the concept of sound and listening.

Using root words like aud can help you understand the meaning of unfamiliar words. If you know that aud relates to hearing, you can often guess the meaning of words that contain this root.

Examples of Words Using the Root 'aud'

Many English words incorporate the root aud. Here are some common examples, as mentioned in the reference, along with others:

• Audio: Relating to sound or its reproduction.
• Audible: Able to be heard.
• Auditorium: A large room or hall where an audience gathers to hear a performance, lecture, etc.
• Audition: A test or trial performance, usually for an actor or singer, to be heard by a director or casting panel.
• Auditory: Relating to the sense of hearing.
• Audience: A group of people who have gathered to listen or watch.

Let's look at some of these words in a table for clarity:

As you can see, each of these words directly or indirectly connects back to the core meaning of hearing or listening, thanks to the aud root. Recognizing this root can significantly expand your vocabulary and comprehension skills.