Definition of Eavesdrap

Definition of Eavesdrap

Eaves"drop` (ēvz"dr&obreve;p`), v. i. [Eaves + drop.] To stand under the eaves, near a window or at the door, of a house, to listen and learn what is said within doors; hence, to listen secretly to what is said in private.

To eavesdrop in disguises.

Milton.

Eaves"drop`, n. The water which falls in drops from the eaves of a house.

- Webster's Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

EAVESDROP, v.i. Secretly to overhear a catalogue of the crimes and
vices of another or yourself.

A lady with one of her ears applied
To an open keyhole heard, inside,
Two female gossips in converse free --
The subject engaging them was she.
"I think," said one, "and my husband thinks
That she's a prying, inquisitive minx!"
As soon as no more of it she could hear
The lady, indignant, removed her ear.
"I will not stay," she said, with a pout,
"To hear my character lied about!"

Gopete Sherany

- 1811 Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue

To hear a conversation one is not intended to hear; to listen in.
I hope nobody was eavesdropping on our conversation last night, since it got so personal.

- The Nuttall Encyclopedia

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