Hearken

Pronunciation

• UK IPA: /ˈherːkÉ™n/
• US IPA: /ˈhÉ‘rkÉ™n/

Alternative forms

• harken

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

1. (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.
2. (transitive, poetic) To hear by listening.
• SpenserShe hearkened now and then
  Some little whispering and soft groaning sound.
3. (transitive) To hear with attention; to regard.
• ShakespeareThe King of Naples ... hearkens my brother's suit.
4. (obsolete) To enquire; to seek information.
• ShakespeareHearken after their offense.