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Definition of eavesdropper

eavesdropper

/ˈiːvzˌdrɑːpɚ/
eaves · drop · per
Plural:eavesdroppers
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eavesdropper Lexical Profile

eavesdropper Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A person who secretly listens to the private conversation of others.

Example

"They lowered their voices to a whisper so that no potential eavesdropper in the hallway could hear their plans."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for eavesdropper

• Nearby Words

eave
eaves
eavesdrop
eavesdropper
ebanking
ebay
ebb

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the late 15th century, the word derives from 'eavesdrop', the ground beneath the overhanging edge of a roof where rainwater drips. An eavesdropper originally referred to someone who stood in this narrow space right outside a building's walls or windows to secretly listen to conversations inside.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Eavesdropper. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/eavesdropper
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