noun
eavesdropping
EEVS-dro-peeng
Eavesdropping (noun) means the act of secretly listening to a conversation that isn't meant for you. Example: “Eavesdropping on your neighbours is rude, even if their walls are thin.”
noun
1
The act of secretly listening to a conversation that isn't meant for you.
"Eavesdropping on your neighbours is rude, even if their walls are thin."
"The spy novel opens with a scene of eavesdropping in a hotel corridor."
2
The interception of private electronic communications, such as phone calls or emails.
"The court ruled the government's eavesdropping on the journalist's emails was illegal."
How to use eavesdropping
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSecretly listening in — whether it's a face-to-face chat or intercepted digital communication.
Common pairings
electronic eavesdropping
accused of eavesdropping
eavesdropping device
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Word forms
- Plural
- eavesdroppings
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_____ on your neighbours is rude, even if their walls are thin.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for eavesdropping
See all rhymes for eavesdropping →Frequently asked questions
What does “eavesdropping” mean?
The word “eavesdropping” means the act of secretly listening to a conversation that isn't meant for you. In plain terms, secretly listening in — whether it's a face-to-face chat or intercepted digital communication.
How do you pronounce “eavesdropping”?
“Eavesdropping” is pronounced EEVS-dro-peeng (/ˈivsˌdɹɒ.piŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “eavesdropping” in a sentence?
Here is “eavesdropping” used in a sentence: “Eavesdropping on your neighbours is rude, even if their walls are thin.”
What is another word for “eavesdropping”?
Words with a similar meaning to “eavesdropping” include tabhanging.
What part of speech is “eavesdropping”?
“Eavesdropping” is a noun.
How many meanings does “eavesdropping” have?
“Eavesdropping” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the act of secretly listening to a conversation that isn't meant for you.
