overhear

verb

over·​hear ˌō-vər-ˈhir 

overheard ˌō-vər-ˈhərd  ; overhearing ˌō-vər-ˈhir-iŋ 

transitive verb

: to hear without the speaker's knowledge or intention

intransitive verb

: to overhear something

Synonyms

• eavesdrop (on)
• listen in (on)

Examples of overhear in a Sentence

She overheard what her boss said to his secretary.

I overheard a rumor about you.

They were overheard discussing the project.

Recent Examples on the Web

Whether overhearing a hallway conversation or catching a remote suggestion, innovation frequently happens in unscripted moments. —Toyna Chin, Forbes.com, 28 Apr. 2025

Along the way, Manny overheard a woozy Finn accuse Audrey of shooting him. —Matt Webb Mitovich, TVLine, 25 Apr. 2025

Already good at hiding cigarettes, Muriel starts lying about her communication with Julius, while keeping from Lee her winnings from racetrack bets (acting on tips overheard at her diner job). —Robert Abele, Los Angeles Times, 25 Apr. 2025

But the reenactors overheard her concern and didn’t miss a beat. —Jordan Greene, People.com, 25 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1549, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Rhymes for overhear

• auctioneer
• bandelier
• belvedere
• bombardier
• brigadier
• buccaneer
• cavalier
• chandelier
• chanticleer
• chevalier
• commandeer
• disappear

Kids Definition

overhear

verb

over·​hear ˌō-vər-ˈhi(ə)r 

overheard -ˈhərd  ; overhearing -ˈhi(ə)r-iŋ 

: to hear without the speaker's knowledge or intention