Definition of "listen" in English

verb

1. (intransitive except in archaic usage) To use one's sense of hearing and auditory cognition in an intentional way; to make deliberate use of one's ears; to pay attention to or wait for a specific sound.

   • Please listen carefully as I explain.
   • I could hear you talking upstairs, but I didn’t really listen to your conversation.
   • (transitive, archaic) Listen the watchman’s cry upon the wall.
   • [with to] I like to listen to music.
   • [with for] You should listen for the starting gun.

2. (intransitive) To accept advice or obey instruction; to agree or assent.

   • Listen, the only reason I yelled at you was because I was upset, OK?
   • Good children listen to their parents.

noun

1. An instance of listening.

   • Give the motor a listen and tell me if it sounds off.