the group of spectators at a public event; listeners or viewers collectively, as in attendance at a theater or concert

The audience was respectful of the speaker's opinion.

the persons reached by a book, radio or television broadcast, etc.; public

Some works of music have a wide and varied audience.

a regular public that manifests interest, support, enthusiasm, or the like; a following

Every art form has its audience.

opportunity to be heard; chance to speak to or before a person or group; a hearing.

a formal interview with a sovereign, high officer of government, or other high-ranking person

an audience with the pope.

the act of hearing, or attending to, words or sounds.

noun

admirers , assemblage , assembly , congregation , crowd , devotees , fans , following , gallery , gathering , hearers , house , listeners , market , moviegoers , onlookers , patrons , playgoers , public , showgoers , spectators , theatergoers , turnout , viewers , witnesses , audition , conference , consideration , consultation , conversation , discussion , interview , meeting , reception , clientele , ear , ratings , theatricality