overhear
verb (used with object)
to hear (speech or a speaker) without the speaker's intention or knowledge.
overhearing
-
present participleof overhear.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
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.
The court heard that Morgan had been deemed a "high risk to others and to himself" after overhearing conversations that took place since he has been in custody.
From BBC ● Jan. 16, 2026
“After overhearing a passionate ideological dispute around her own kitchen table between the future Nobel laureate for literature and his radical friends from the University of Chicago, she muttered: ‘Smart, smart, smart.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 17, 2025
“Kids are often being exposed to these topics anyway, through their peers, the media and overhearing conversations,” said Wenner Moyer.
From Salon ● Oct. 7, 2024
Suddenly the customer at the next table over, overhearing the conversation, leaned over.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 2, 2024
The Reverend Post, overhearing the conversation, joined in.
From "In Cold Blood" by Truman Capote
