(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.
(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
An instance of listening.
Give the motor a listen and tell me if it sounds off.