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Definition of wiretapping

wiretapping

/ˈwaɪ.ɚˌtæp.ɪŋ/
wire · tap · ping
Plural:wiretappings
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wiretapping Lexical Profile

wiretapping Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The practice of connecting a listening or recording device to a telephone, telegraph, or internet line to secretly monitor or record communications.

Example

"The defense attorney argued that the evidence was obtained through illegal wiretapping without a judicial warrant."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for wiretapping

• Nearby Words

wireman
wiretap
wiretapper
wiretapping
wirewalker
wirily
wiriness

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in American English in the 1890s from 'wire' and 'tapping', originally referring to the literal connection of a secret wire to a telegraph or telephone line to intercept communications.

Cite this Entry

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