Definition

Noun: A person who secretly listens to a private conversation, typically without the knowledge or consent of the speakers.

Usage

The word "eavesdropper" is used to label a person who engages in the act of eavesdropping. It carries a negative connotation, implying secrecy and an invasion of privacy. It is a countable noun.

Examples

• The politician feared that an eavesdropper might have overheard the confidential strategy meeting.
• She lowered her voice, glancing around the café to ensure there were no potential eavesdroppers.
• In the age of digital communication, an eavesdropper could be a piece of software intercepting data.

Advanced Usage

• "An inadvertent eavesdropper": Refers to someone who accidentally overhears a private conversation, without intentionally seeking to listen.
  • Sitting at the adjacent table, I became an inadvertent eavesdropper to their intense argument.

Variants and Related Words

• Eavesdrop (verb): To secretly listen to a private conversation.
  • It is rude to eavesdrop on your neighbors.
• Eavesdropping (noun/gerund): The act of listening secretly.
  • The device was used for illegal eavesdropping.

Synonyms

• Listener-in: A person who listens, especially to a broadcast or conversation (can imply secrecy).
• Interceptor: One who seizes or interrupts something, especially communications, before it reaches its destination.
• Snoop: A person who investigates or looks around in a sneaking, intrusive way (broader than just listening).

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "Walls have ears": This idiom warns of the possibility of eavesdroppers.
  • Be careful what you say here; remember, walls have ears.

Noun

1. a secret listener to private conversations