overhear Definition
hear (someone or something) without meaning to or without the knowledge of the speaker.
Using overhear: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "overhear" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
I overheard a conversation between my boss and her assistant.
Example
She was talking so loudly that I couldn't help overhearing what she said.
Example
I didn't mean to overhear, but they were speaking so loudly in the next room.
overhear Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with overhear
be unable to concentrate or think clearly because of noise or other distractions
Example
With all the construction noise outside, I can't even overhear myself think.
Example
After the teacher scolded the class, you could hear a pin drop as everyone sat in silence.
Example
I overheard through the grapevine that the company is planning to lay off some employees.
Summary: overhear in Brief
'Overhear' [ˌəʊvəˈhɪə(r)] means to hear someone or something unintentionally or without the speaker's knowledge. It is often used to describe accidentally hearing a conversation or picking up information that was not intended for the listener. 'Overhear' can be used in phrases like 'overhear oneself think,' 'overhear a pin drop,' and 'overhear through the grapevine.'
