'eavesdrop' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'yfesdrype,' where 'yfes' meant 'eaves' and 'drype' meant 'drip.'

'yfesdrype' transformed into the Middle English word 'evesdrop,' and eventually became the modern English word 'eavesdrop.'

Initially, it referred to the area around a house where water drips from the eaves, but over time it evolved into its current meaning of listening secretly.