overhear

verb

over·​hear ˌō-vər-ˈhir 

overheard ˌō-vər-ˈhərd  ; overhearing ˌō-vər-ˈhir-iŋ 

transitive verb

: to hear without the speaker's knowledge or intention

intransitive verb

: to overhear something

Synonyms

• eavesdrop (on)
• listen in (on)

Examples of overhear in a Sentence

She overheard what her boss said to his secretary.

I overheard a rumor about you.

They were overheard discussing the project.

Recent Examples on the Web

Tell us about experiences that capture the city’s spirit and heart — an anecdote, memory, quirky encounter or overheard snippet of conversation that has stuck with you or only just happened. —New York Times, 29 Dec. 2024

Ironically, his girlfriend overheard part of the conversation and burst into laughter, the man writes. —Ashley Vega, People.com, 23 Dec. 2024

The kindness of strangers continued when a woman overheard Robbins' story and offered her condolences. —Dan Perry, Newsweek, 18 Dec. 2024

Brady is unaware that Lark is in earshot and overhears their conversation. —Annabel Gutterman, TIME, 19 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1549, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Kids Definition

overhear

verb

over·​hear ˌō-vər-ˈhi(ə)r 

overheard -ˈhərd  ; overhearing -ˈhi(ə)r-iŋ 

: to hear without the speaker's knowledge or intention