“The word 'eavesdropper' originally referred to people who, under the pretence of taking in some fresh air, would stand under the 'eavesdrip' of their house - from which the collected raindrops would fall - in the hopes of catching any juicy tid-bits of information that might come their way from their neighbour's property.”

English lexicographer, etymologist, and media personality

Susie Dent is an English lexicographer, etymologist, and media personality, known for her long-running presence on television. Born in 1964, she has appeared in Dictionary Corner on Channel 4’s Countdown since 1992. She also appears on 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, the comedy spin-off of the show. Her work centers on words, their meanings, and their histories, which has made her a familiar voice on British television.