hearken
verb (used without object)
to give heed or attention to what is said; listen.
hearkened
-
past participleof hearken.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
-
past tense formof hearken.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
hearkenverb (used without object)to give heed or attention to what is said; listen.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
As directed by James Griffiths, Mr. Basden and Mr. Key’s screenplay hearkened back to “Local Hero” with its warm glow of appreciation for U.K. oddballs.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 24, 2025
Carney revealed it on Friday during his first speech as prime minister when he hearkened back - with a shiny polish - to the origins of this former colony.
From BBC ● Mar. 16, 2025
During a hearing Thursday, Carter posed provocative questions to the attorneys and, at one point, hearkened to a time when the VA had thousands of veterans living there.
From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 18, 2023
The judge also hearkened back to the days that Silicon Valley consisted mostly of orchards farmed by immigrants.
From Washington Times ● May 27, 2023
There was uncertainty in his voice, though, and later Theresa hearkened to this.
From "Typical American" by Gish Jen
