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

When he’s locked up, Mo overhears one of the other immigrants talking about his journey: ‘The mud slides, the snakes, the jungle, the cartel. —Fidel Martinez, Los Angeles Times, 14 Feb. 2025

The Devil, played by the incomparable Elizabeth Hurley, overhears Elliot and offers to give him seven wishes in exchange for his soul. —Maureen Lee Lenker, EW.com, 12 Feb. 2025

Her children overheard her conversation on immigration during work at a nonprofit. —Eduardo Cuevas, USA TODAY, 7 Feb. 2025

The call was overheard by a friend of Lee’s who later described the conversation to authorities. —Tim Stelloh, NBC News, 7 Feb. 2025

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