174: eavesdrop May 31, 2015

Before the invention and popularization of guttering roofs made with wide eaves, overhangs to keep rainwater from damaging the walls and foundations by making the rain fall away from the house were used. This space was known as an eavesdrop. The large overhang gave good cover for those who wished to lurk in shadows and listen to others’ conversations, giving us the word 'eavesdrop'. Interestingly, the area under the eaves was considered part of the house owner’s property, so one could be fined under Anglo-Saxon law for being under the eaves with the intention of spying.