clearances
|clear-ance|
🇺🇸
/ˈklɪr.əns/
🇬🇧
/ˈklɪə.rəns/
(clearance)
removal or authorization
Etymology
'clearance' originates from Old French and Middle English formation, specifically from the adjective 'clear' combined with the noun-forming suffix '-ance'.
'clearance' developed from Middle English 'clerance' (from Anglo-Norman/Old French 'clerance'), formed by 'clear' + '-ance', and eventually became the modern English word 'clearance'.
Initially it meant 'the act or process of making clear or removing obstructions', but over time it broadened to include 'official permission', 'physical space between objects', 'customs processing', and 'sales to clear inventory'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
official permission or authorization to do something (e.g., access to classified information).
Several applicants were denied security clearances.
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Noun 2
the space or distance required between two objects to avoid contact or allow movement.
The machine's moving parts need very small clearances to operate correctly.
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Noun 3
the process of getting goods through customs (customs formalities).
Customs clearances delayed the shipment for 3 days.
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Noun 4
events or sales where retailers heavily discount stock to clear inventory (clearance sales).
We often shop at the store's clearances to find bargains.
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Noun 5
the act of removing trees, vegetation, or buildings from land (act of clearing).
Historical clearances converted large areas of forest into farmland.
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Last updated: 2025/11/26 03:08