Definition

1. Verb:
   • To listen secretly to a private conversation, typically without the knowledge or consent of the speakers.

Usage

• The verb "eavesdrop" describes the act of intentionally and covertly listening in on a conversation that one is not meant to be a part of.
• It is typically used with the prepositions "on" or "upon" to specify the conversation being listened to.
• It carries a negative connotation, implying intrusion and a lack of respect for privacy.

Examples

• Verb:
  • It is rude to eavesdrop on other people's discussions.
  • She accidentally eavesdropped on her neighbors arguing through the thin walls.
  • The spy was caught eavesdropping on the confidential meeting.

Advanced Usage

• "to eavesdrop on/upon something/someone": The standard construction for specifying the target of the secret listening.
  • The journalist was accused of eavesdropping on the politician's phone calls.
• Eavesdropper (noun): A person who eavesdrops.
  • The eavesdropper was discovered hiding behind the curtain.

Variants and Related Words

• Eavesdropping (noun/gerund): The action or practice of listening secretly to private conversations.
  • The law prohibits the eavesdropping of private communications.
• Eavesdropper (noun): See above.

Synonyms

• Listen in: To listen to a conversation, especially a private one, without participating.
• Overhear: To hear something without the speaker's intention, which can be accidental, unlike the intentional nature of "eavesdrop."
• Monitor: To listen to or observe for a specific purpose, often with technological means.

Phrasal Verbs

• Eavesdrop on/upon: The only common phrasal construction for this verb.
  • He used a device to eavesdrop on their plans.

Related Idioms

• To have/keep one's ear to the ground: To be attentive to rumors or trends, which may involve listening carefully but not necessarily secretly.
• Walls have ears: A warning that one may be overheard, implying the possibility of eavesdropping.

Verb

1. listen without the speaker's knowledge
   • the jealous man was eavesdropping on his wife's conversations