Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

eavesdropping

noun
/ˈiːvzˌdrɒpɪŋ/
Definition
The act of secretly listening to the private conversation of others without their knowledge.
Examples
  • She felt guilty about eavesdropping on her parents’ conversation.
  • The detective relied on eavesdropping to gather clues about the case.
  • Eavesdropping can breach privacy and trust.
Meaning
Eavesdropping typically involves overhearing conversations or discussions without the participants being aware of it, often with the intent to gain information.
Synonyms
  • overhearing
  • listening in
  • spying