eavesdropped crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below, you'll find comprehensive solutions for the clue "eavesdropped crossword clue," organized by letter count to help you quickly complete your puzzle. We provide not just the answers but also explanations to enhance your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "eavesdropped crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
HEARD: A simple yet effective answer, implying something was listened to, often secretly in this context.
SPIED: While often meaning to observe visually, 'spied' can also encompass covert listening, making it a viable answer.
6 Letters
TAPPED: Refers to the act of wiretapping, a direct form of electronic eavesdropping, making it a strong fit for the clue.
9 Letters
OVERHEARD: The most common and direct synonym for 'eavesdropped', meaning to hear something unintentionally or without the speaker's knowledge.
10 Letters
LISTENEDIN: Directly describes the action of participating in or listening to a conversation surreptitiously, perfectly matching 'eavesdropped'.
More About "eavesdropped crossword clue"
"Eavesdropped" in a crossword puzzle typically points to a word describing the act of secretly listening to a private conversation. This action is often portrayed as covert, hidden, or without the knowledge of the speakers. Crossword setters frequently use this clue to test your knowledge of synonyms that convey this sense of stealthy auditory acquisition.
The answers can range from direct synonyms like OVERHEARD to more specific methods of clandestine listening such as TAPPED (as in wiretapped). Sometimes, more general words like HEARD or SPIED might fit if the context of the clue or the crossing letters strongly suggests a secretive element. Understanding the nuances of these related terms is key to cracking such clues quickly.
Consider the past tense of the verb when working with "eavesdropped" as the clue, as most common answers like OVERHEARD and LISTENEDIN are also in the past tense. This grammatical alignment can be a crucial hint when faced with multiple possibilities of the same length.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Look for Tense Clues: The clue "eavesdropped" is in the past tense, so prioritize answers that are also past tense verbs, like OVERHEARD or LISTENEDIN.
- Consider Synonyms and Context: Think about all the ways one can secretly listen. This can range from simply 'hearing' something by accident (OVERHEARD) to more deliberate acts like 'tapping' a phone line.
- Check Letter Count and Crossings: Always use the number of squares provided in the grid and any solved crossing letters to narrow down the possible answers. This is especially helpful when multiple synonyms exist for a clue.
- Think About Slang or Indirect Meanings: Crosswords sometimes use less literal interpretations. For example, 'spied' isn't just visual, it can imply secret observation of any kind.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "eavesdropped" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "eavesdropped" refers to secretly listening to a private conversation. Clues will often hint at covert or hidden listening, requiring synonyms like OVERHEARD, LISTENEDIN, or even TAPPED.
Are there common synonyms for "eavesdropped" in crosswords?
Yes, very common synonyms include OVERHEARD, LISTENEDIN, SPIED, HEARD (when the context implies secrecy), and TAPPED (referring to wiretapping). The specific answer depends on the available letter count.
How do I determine the length of the answer for "eavesdropped"?
The length of the answer is determined by the number of squares provided in the crossword grid. Use the crossing letters from other solved clues to narrow down the possibilities for answers like OVERHEARD (9 letters) or LISTENEDIN (10 letters).