listen in
Third Person
listens in
Present Participle
listening in
Past Tense
listened in
Past Participle
listened in
1
to secretly listen to a conversation without the knowledge or consent of the participants
- The gossip columnist listened in on the phone conversation, hoping to scoop the latest news.
- The teacher could hear the students whispering from the hallway, but she chose not to listen in.
- The couple was too engrossed in their conversation to notice the eavesdropper listening in.
- The undercover agent listened in on the criminals' conversation, hoping to gather evidence for their arrest.
Synonyms:
2
to listen to a conversation or communication without participating
- The teacher listened in on the students' conversation, making sure they were staying on topic.
- The manager listened in on the employees' conversation, hoping to gain insights into their workplace satisfaction.
- Is it alright if I listen in on your presentation rehearsal this afternoon?
- Would you be open to me joining the meeting and listening in?
3
to listen to a radio program
transitive
- The radio station is having a special promotion, so listen in to win a prize!
- The concert is being broadcast live on the radio, so you can listen in from anywhere.
- I'm going to listen in to the game on the radio tonight.
- The old man enjoys listening in to his favorite radio programs.
- I like to listen in to the news on the radio in the morning.