verb
hearken
HAR-kun/ˈhɑːrkən/
to listen attentively or pay heed
The listener hearkens to the speaker, leaning forward with close attention.
Etymology
Old English heorcnian meant to give ear or hear with attention. Attentive listening is therefore already present in the ancestor, rather than being a later literary addition.
In context
Hearken then, armorer! I cannot at this moment buy a suit of plate, and yet I sorely need steel harness on account of a small deed which it is in my mind to do.
More examples
- She hearkened to her grandmother’s advice and made peace with her sister.
- Hearken to the words of those who know you best.
- The travelers paused, hearkening to a distant cry for help.
Forms
hearken · hearkens · hearkened · hearkening