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

January 7, 2024: Selena Gomez is allegedly overheard saying Jenner denied someone a photograph with Chalamet at the Golden Globes. —Zoë Haylock, Vulture, 7 Mar. 2025

However, an assistant principal overheard her and advised her to look up its actual meaning. —Russel Honoré, Newsweek, 5 Mar. 2025

Later, at the end of the episode, Kate overhears them talking about her during a late-night chat in their villa. —Colleen Kratofil, People.com, 3 Mar. 2025

Fortunately, Beckham's use of the phrase was down to little more than overhearing a song. —Matt Robison, Newsweek, 25 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1549, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Rhymes for overhear

• auctioneer
• bandelier
• belvedere
• bombardier
• brigadier
• buccaneer
• cavalier
• chandelier
• chanticleer
• chevalier
• commandeer
• disappear

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