hearken
UK: ˈhɑːkən | US: ˈhɑːrkən
vi. to listen attentively (archaic or poetic)
vt. to give heed or pay attention to something (archaic or poetic)
The word "hearken" originates from Old English heorcnian, a combination of "hear" (to perceive sound) and the suffix "-ken" (related to perception or knowledge, from Old English cennan). Over time, it evolved to emphasize attentive listening, often in a poetic or archaic context. The morpheme "hear" remains central to its meaning, while "-ken" reinforces the act of focused perception.
The villagers would hearken to the elder's wise words.
She hearkened to the distant sound of bells.
The king commanded his subjects to hearken to his decree.
In the quiet forest, one could hearken to the rustling leaves.
The poet urged readers to hearken to the whispers of nature.