overheard

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Definitions from WordNet

Verb overhear has 1 sense

catch, take in, overhear - hear, usually without the knowledge of the speakers; "We overheard the conversation at the next table"
--₁ is one way to hear
Sample sentence:
They overhear that there was a traffic accident

Definitions from the Web

Overheard

Part of Speech: verb

Definition

To hear, listen or accidentally catch a conversation or remark intended for others.

Sense 1

Usage: Popular

Definition: To hear and understand a conversation not intended for one's ears in a public or private setting.

Example sentence 1: I overheard my colleagues discussing the upcoming project during lunch.

Example sentence 2: My sister overheard our parents talking about our surprise trip before they announced it.

Example sentence 3: The journalist overhears crucial information while waiting in the hotel lobby.

Sense 2

Usage: Local

Definition: To hear and understand local slang, expressions, or language common to a specific area or community.

Example sentence 1: While visiting New York, I overheard a conversation where someone referred to "dirty water dogs" and realized it was a local term for street hot dogs.

Example sentence 2: Overhearing the natives speaking in a regional dialect helped me pick up the nuances of the language faster.

Example sentence 3: The local restaurant's menu was filled with unique dishes, and overhearing customers ordering their favorites helped me make my selection.