eavesdrop
Translation
to eavesdrop, to listen in
Examples
He was caught eavesdropping on their conversation.
He was caught eavesdropping on their conversation.
Grammar Patterns
((on sb./sth.)) to secretly listen to (sb./sth.) He was caught eavesdropping on their conversation.
Similar Words
Synonyms: listen in, spy on, overhear
Etymology
From 'eaves' (roof edge) + 'drop'. It originally referred to a person standing in the 'eavesdrip'—the ground where water drips from the eaves—to listen to conversations inside a house.
Memory Tips
Picture someone 'dropping' down from the 'eaves' of a roof to secretly listen in.