n.
Function: transitive verb
Date: 14th century
1 a : to make clear or translucent b : to free from pollution or cloudiness
2 : to free from accusation or blame : EXONERATE , VINDICATE <the opportunity to clear himself>
3 a : to give insight to : ENLIGHTEN b : to make intelligible : EXPLAIN < clear up the mystery>
4 a : to free from what obstructs or is unneeded: as (1) : OPEN 1B < clear a path> (2) : to remove unwanted growth or items from < clear the land of timber> (3) : to rid or make a rasping noise as if ridding (the throat) of phlegm (4) : to erase stored or displayed data from (as a computer or calculator) b : to empty of occupants < clear the room> c : DISENTANGLE < clear a fishing line> d : to remove from an area or place < clear the dishes from the table> e : TRANSMIT , DISPATCH
5 a : to submit for approval < clear it with me first> b : AUTHORIZE , APPROVE < clear ed the article for publication>: as (1) : to certify as trustworthy < clear a person for classified information> (2) : to permit (an aircraft) to proceed usually with a specified action <the plane was clear ed to land>
6 a : to free from obligation or encumbrance b : SETTLE , DISCHARGE < clear an account> c (1) : to free (a ship or shipment) by payment of duties or harbor fees (2) : to pass through (customs) d : to gain without deduction : NET < clear a profit> e : to put through a clearinghouse
7 a : to go over, under, or by without touching <the ball just clear ed the uprights> b : to move through successfully : PASS <the bill clear ed the legislature>
intransitive verb
1 a : to become clear <it clear ed up quickly after the rain> b : to go away : VANISH <the symptoms clear ed gradually> c : SELL
2 a : to obtain permission to discharge cargo b : to conform to regulations or pay requisite fees prior to leaving port
3 : to pass through a clearinghouse
4 : to go to an authority (as for approval) before becoming effective
– clear · able \ ' klir- ə -b ə l \ adjective
– clear · er \ ' klir- ə r \ noun
– clear the air also clear the atmosphere : to remove elements of hostility, tension, confusion, or uncertainty <had a long meeting to clear the air >
– clear the decks : to make sweeping preparations for action