listen
UK: ˈlɪs(ə)n | US: ˈlɪs(ə)n
vi. to give attention with the ear; be attentive to sound
vi. to heed or obey (e.g., a request or advice)
vi. (phrasal verb) listen in: to eavesdrop or monitor a conversation
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The word "listen" traces back to Old English hlysnan, meaning "to hear," which evolved into Middle English listnen. The root list- preserves the core idea of auditory attention, while the suffix -en (from Old English -ian) marks it as a verb. Over time, the spelling simplified, but the connection to active hearing remained central. The word’s logic reflects a deliberate focus on sound, distinct from passive hearing (e.g., "hear").
She leaned forward to listen carefully to the whispered conversation.
Children should listen to their parents’ advice.
The detective listened in on the suspects’ phone call.
I love to listen to jazz while working.
If you listen closely, you can hear the ocean waves from here.