Overhearer

An overhearer is a person who unintentionally or surreptitiously hears a conversation or other private communication that was not directed at them. They become privy to information not intended for their ears, often through being nearby or by eavesdropping. Their role is passive; they are an observer, not a participant, in the communication. The act of overhearing can range from harmless happenstance to ethically questionable behavior, depending on the context and the nature of the information overheard.

Overhearer meaning with examples

• Sitting at a nearby table, the tourist became an overhearer to a heated argument between two lovers. He discreetly glanced over, unable to avoid the exchange, gaining unintended insight into their personal drama. He wished he had not overheard their problems but was intrigued to the end and was not able to stop listening.
• The young intern, pretending to focus on paperwork, unintentionally became an overhearer to a confidential discussion between the CEO and the CFO. The sensitive details about the company's impending merger caused the overhearer a great deal of anxiety, as he struggled to decide whether to do anything with the details.
• While waiting in line at the supermarket, the woman found herself an overhearer to a gossipy conversation about her neighbor's marital problems. Although uncomfortable, the overhearer felt like she had stumbled into the middle of a drama that was absolutely none of her business, and she had no choice.
• At the crowded cafe, a student became an overhearer of a professor critiquing his research proposal. The overheard comments, although not directed at him, gave him valuable insights into his mistakes, which would help him avoid these mistakes next time the student gave a presentation.
• The shy library user was an accidental overhearer to a whispered discussion about a secret society and its hidden agenda. Though fascinated, the overhearer was wary of their clandestine nature and, feeling conflicted, quickly returned to their book, not wanting to engage in an unknown conspiracy.