Hearken
Pronunciation
- UK IPA: /ˈherËkÉ™n/
- US IPA: /ˈhɑrkən/
Alternative forms
Origin
From Middle English hercnen, from Old English *heorcnian, suffixed form of an assumed *heorcian (cf. hark), from the same root as hȳran (whence hear), with a formative/intensive -k. Equivalent to hark + -en.
Full definition of hearken
Verb
- (intransitive) To listen; to lend the ear; to attend or give heed to what is uttered; to hear with attention, obedience, or compliance.
- DrydenThe Furies hearken, and their snakes uncurl.
- Bible, DeuteronomyHearken, O Israel, unto the statutes and unto the judgments, which I teach you.
- (transitive, poetic) To hear by listening.
- SpenserShe hearkened now and then
Some little whispering and soft groaning sound. - (transitive) To hear with attention; to regard.
- ShakespeareThe King of Naples ... hearkens my brother's suit.
- (obsolete) To enquire; to seek information.
- ShakespeareHearken after their offense.