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eavesdrop


eaves·drop

verb \ˈēvz-ˌdräp\

Definition of EAVESDROP

intransitive verb
: to listen secretly to what is said in private
eaves·drop·per noun

Origin of EAVESDROP

probably back-formation from eavesdropper, literally, one standing under the drip from the eaves
First Known Use: 1606

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