Definition

A person who secretly listens to the conversations of others without their knowledge.

Example

The eavesdropper hid behind the door to hear what they were saying.

Conversation

Did you hear what they were talking about earlier?

No, I missed it. Were you being an eavesdropper?

Maybe just a little! It was too interesting to ignore.

That's hilarious! But you know, eavesdroppers often get in trouble.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Eavesdropper → It is formed from "eaves" (from Old English *yfes*, meaning the edge of a roof) and "dropper" (from "drop" meaning to fall). The word refers to someone who listens secretly from the edge of a roof or nearby place, as if listening to drops of conversation.

Memory Tip

Imagine someone listening from the 'edge of a roof' ('eaves') to catch 'falling' words ('drop') — that's how an eavesdropper hears secrets.

Visually Confused Words