Hearken Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
👂
hearken
[ˈhɑrkən ]
Definition
listen carefully
To hearken means to listen attentively or to pay close attention. It is often used in a literary or poetic context to convey a sense of urgency or importance in the act of listening. The term suggests more than just hearing; it implies a deeper level of engagement with what is being said or presented. In historical texts, 'hearken' is frequently employed to draw the audience's focus towards a crucial message or event. This verb is somewhat archaic and is less commonly used in modern conversation.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He hearkened to the wise words of the elder.
- The crowd hearkened to the announcement from the stage.
- In her speech, she urged everyone to hearken to the call for action.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- Writers like Shakespeare and John Milton frequently used the term in their works to command attention.
- Often found in fairy tales and fables, 'hearken' gives a sense of solemnity and importance to the act of listening.
- It appears in various forms of storytelling to engage the reader's ears and imagination.
Modern Usage
- Today, 'hearken' may sound old-fashioned, making it more present in classic literature than in everyday conversation.
- In modern contexts, it's often found in religious texts or poetic styles, evoking a sense of reverence.
- The phrase 'hearken to my words' is a common expression used in speeches to catch attention.
Cultural References
- In some cultures, listening is considered an essential skill, and 'hearken' embodies the value placed on attentive listening.
- Songs and hymns from various cultures often call upon people to 'hearken' as an invocation to clarity and understanding.
- In certain traditions, the act of hearkening is linked to wisdom, as the listener gains insight from the speaker.
Psychology
- Active listening is key to effective communication, reflecting the essence of what 'hearken' embodies.
- The concept of hearkening to one's inner thoughts can lead to mindfulness and self-awareness.
- Research shows that attentive listening can enhance relationships and increase empathy.
Origin of 'hearken'
Main points about word origin
- 'Hearken' comes from the Old English word 'hercan', which means to hear or listen.
- 'Hearken' was commonly used in Middle English, often in literature and poetry.
- The word once had a more general meaning and has gradually shifted to a more formal or literary context.
The word 'hearken' originates from the Old English term 'hercnian,' which means 'to listen.' The evolution of the word reflects the linguistic changes over centuries, particularly from Old English into Middle English, where it appeared in various forms such as 'hercan.' In historical texts, its usage often carried a sense of formality and gravitas. 'Hearken' was commonly found in religious or poetic writings, where urging listeners to pay attention to moral lessons or significant events was paramount. The spelling and pronunciation evolved, and by the late Middle Ages, 'hearken' became the more prevalent form used in literature. However, as the English language modernized, 'hearken' fell out of common usage, replaced by simpler terms such as 'listen' or 'hear.' Despite this decline, it remains an evocative word in literary contexts, often evoking a sense of nostalgia and reverence for the act of attentive listening.