Overhear

To unintentionally or accidentally hear someone speaking, a conversation, or sounds without the speaker's awareness. This typically involves being in close proximity to the source of the sound or being privy to a conversation not directly intended for your ears. The act often carries a sense of unintended access to private information or a situation, which may lead to ethical considerations regarding privacy. The information gathered through overhearing can range from trivial gossip to important secrets, thus impacting the listener's perspective.

Overhear meaning with examples

• While waiting in the doctor's office, Sarah nervously began to overhear the receptionist discussing a patient's test results. Although she knew it wasn't intended for her, the information filled her mind with doubt. She couldn't help but feel intrusive. This experience led her to reflect on privacy.
• Sitting at the park, a gentle breeze carried snippets of conversation between two women. I began to overhear their discussion about a planned surprise birthday party for their friend. I was tempted to insert myself but realized that I could cause upset and chose to stay silent.
• During my commute on the train, I tried to avoid **overhearing** the tense argument a couple was having. Even though my headphones were on I heard some snippets through the music. Their words were not intended for me, so I turned the volume up.
• The journalist managed to overhear the whispers of the two politicians during the gala dinner. Though their conversation was not meant to be public, it gave him a better understanding of their strategies. This would make an interesting article