das Abhören
Translation
eavesdropping, wiretapping, bugging, auscultation
Examples
Das Abhören von Telefonen ist illegal.
Wiretapping phones is illegal.
Der Arzt beginnt mit dem Abhören der Lunge.
The doctor begins with the auscultation of the lungs.
Grammar Patterns
the eavesdropping ((on sth.)) the eavesdropping on conversations
Similar Words
Synonyms: das Belauschen (eavesdropping), die Spionage (espionage)
Etymology
Nominalisation of the verb 'abhören', from 'ab-' (off, away) + 'hören' (to hear). The idea is to 'hear off' a conversation not meant for you.
Memory Tips
Think of 'ab' as secretly taking something away. Here, you're secretly 'taking away' sounds by listening in. Also used medically for listening to the body (auscultation).