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

• hear
• monitor
• spy

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

Brian continues to apologize, but Murtagh isn’t hearing it, and soon Balloch — who, by the way, overheard at least part of that conversation — beckons Brian and Murtagh back into the church. —Kimberly Roots, TVLine, 12 Sep. 2025

Through the closet door—and a layer of winter coats—I’ve managed to overhear that the 2025 Emmys are on Sunday. —Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 11 Sep. 2025

Didi, divorced, learns her daughter won’t be with her that evening — a phone call overheard by Cliff. —Jake Coyle, Boston Herald, 11 Sep. 2025

In the movie, Manchester overhears conversations by the Toys R’ Us manager Mitch (Peter Dinklage) and an employee Leigh. —Zach Dennis, Charlotte Observer, 10 Sep. 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