Hearken

To hearken is to listen attentively; to give heed; to pay attention. It implies a readiness to listen and obey, often with a sense of respect or deference. The act of hearkening suggests a deeper engagement than simple hearing; it's a conscious effort to understand and respond to the message being delivered. Historically, the word carries connotations of religious or spiritual observance, referring to listening to divine pronouncements. The word suggests a quiet, focused, and often respectful reception of a message. It can also mean to listen to advice or a warning and take it into consideration.

Hearken meaning with examples

• The old wizard urged the young apprentice to hearken to his instructions, for the spell was complex and demanded absolute precision. Failure to hearken could result in dire consequences. The apprentice, wide-eyed and nervous, promised to hearken closely, knowing his future depended on it.
• Lost and desperate, the sailors called out to the heavens, praying for a sign. They begged the gods to hearken to their pleas for salvation, hoping for rescue from the raging storm and the perils of the sea. It was their last hope in a dangerous moment.
• The wise woman, observing the community's growing discontent, pleaded with the villagers to hearken to her words of caution. They needed to understand the danger of the approaching storm. They hesitated, but eventually the community began to hearken.
• During the historical trial, the jury was asked to hearken to the evidence presented, carefully considering each piece before rendering their judgment. The judge emphasized the importance of impartiality. They tried to hearken.
• The talented musician invited the audience to hearken to the symphony's opening chords, encouraging them to immerse themselves in the unfolding narrative. The audience held their breath. The melody started. They were ready to hearken.