Meaning

1. A group of people within hearing; specifically, a large gathering of people listening to or watching a performance, speech, etc.
2. Hearing; the condition or state of hearing or listening.
3. A widespread or nationwide viewing or listening public, as of a TV or radio network or program.
4. A formal meeting with a state or religious dignitary.
5. The readership of a book or other written publication.
6. A following.
7. An audiencia (judicial court of the Spanish empire), or the territory administered by it.