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Hearken is a verb that originated from Middle English and can be traced back to Old English "hercnian," meaning "to listen, attend, or give heed." The term primarily denotes the act of paying close attention or listening carefully. The word emphasizes a focused and deliberate act of listening, often suggesting an eagerness or willingness to heed or comply with what is being heard.
Hearken is often used to describe an intentional and heightened level of attentiveness to sounds, words, or messages. It implies not only the act of listening but also the sincere effort to understand and respond appropriately. It conveys a sense of earnest engagement and interest in what one is hearing.
Furthermore, hearken can also carry a figurative connotation, indicating a thoughtful consideration or reflection upon a particular issue or idea. In such cases, it implies a deliberate introspection that goes beyond mere listening and extends to introspection and contemplation.
Hearken is frequently employed in poetic or literary contexts to evoke a sense of nostalgia or reverence for the past. It is often associated with archaic or biblical language, adding a touch of formality or solemnity to the narrative or dialogue.
Overall, hearken suggests a deep and purposeful attention, emphasizing a readiness to receive and respond to what is being heard, either literally or metaphorically.
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To attend to what is uttered; to listen; to give heed to.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word hearken is derived from Middle English herknen, which came from Old English heorcnian. This Old English word, in turn, is related to the German word horchen, meaning to hear/listen, reflecting their common Germanic origins. The root can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word hauzjanan, which meant to hear.
CONDITIONAL
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CONDITIONAL PERFECT
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CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE
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CONDITIONAL PRESENT
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CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE
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FUTURE
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FUTURE PERFECT
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IMPERATIVE
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PAST
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PAST CONTINUOUS
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PAST PARTICIPLE
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PAST PERFECT
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PRESENT PARTICIPLE
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PRESENT PERFECT
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PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE
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SIMPLE PAST
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