51Թ

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View synonyms for

eavesdrop

[eevz-drop]

verb (used without object)

eavesdropped, eavesdropping 
  1. to listen secretly to a private conversation.



verb (used with object)

eavesdropped, eavesdropping 
  1. Archaic.to eavesdrop on.

noun

  1. water that drips from the eaves.

  2. the ground on which such water falls.

eavesdrop

/ ˈːˌɒ /

verb

  1. (intr) to listen secretly to the private conversation of others

“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Other 51Թ Forms

  • eavesdropper noun
  • antieavesdropping adjective
  • ˈ𲹱ˌDZ noun
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51Թ History and Origins

Origin of eavesdrop1

before 900; (noun) Middle English evesdrope, evesdripe, Old English yfesdrype; as v., probably back formation from eavesdropper, late Middle English evisdroppyr, apparently literally, one who stands on the eavesdrop in order to listen to conversations inside the house; eave, drop, drip
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51Թ History and Origins

Origin of eavesdrop1

C17: back formation from earlier evesdropper, from Old English yfesdrype water dripping from the eaves; see eaves , drop ; compare Old Norse upsardropi
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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

I’m inclined to believe him, and it’s also a gas to eavesdrop on Marty’s parent-teacher conferences, where the adults no longer give a flying fig about their kids’ futures.

From

The satellites eavesdropped on Russian missiles and defense installations.

From

A man was monologuing to an acquaintance about his career change from tech to film and this is my favorite place to eavesdrop.

From

She also accused state prosecutors of "eavesdropping" on Mr Mangione's recorded calls with her from jail.

From

“I find life interesting. I spy on people. I eavesdrop. I read 20 newspapers a day. I get 100 magazines in the mail still,” he said.

From

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eaveseave spout