eavesdropping Definition
the act of secretly listening to a conversation without the knowledge or consent of the speakers.
Using eavesdropping: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "eavesdropping" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
She was caught eavesdropping on her boss's private conversation.
Example
He overheard their conversation by eavesdropping outside the door.
Example
Eavesdropping is considered a violation of privacy.
eavesdropping Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for eavesdropping
Phrases with eavesdropping
to secretly listen to someone's conversation without their knowledge or consent
Example
I couldn't help but eavesdrop on their conversation.
Example
The reporter was accused of eavesdropping on a confidential meeting.
caught eavesdropping
to be discovered while secretly listening to a conversation
Example
She was embarrassed when she was caught eavesdropping on her coworkers.
Origins of eavesdropping
from 'eavesdrop', which originally referred to the water that drips from the eaves of a house, and 'drop' meaning 'to listen'
Summary: eavesdropping in Brief
Eavesdropping [ˈiːvzdrɒpɪŋ] refers to the act of secretly listening to a conversation without the knowledge or consent of the speakers. It is considered a violation of privacy and can result in embarrassment or legal consequences. Common phrases include 'eavesdrop on someone' and 'caught eavesdropping.'
