walls have ears

W

walls have ears (idiom)
/ˈwɔːlz hæv ɪərz/

Meaning

• Be aware that someone might be secretly listening to a private conversation.
• Imply that it’s risky to speak freely because others could be overhearing.
• Warn that confidential information could be exposed if caution isn’t taken.
• Suggest that even in supposedly safe places, nothing said is truly secure from being heard.

Example Sentences

1. We should talk about the plan later—walls have ears in this building.
2. Be careful what you say at work; even the walls have ears.
3. I won’t discuss the merger here—these walls have ears.
4. Be careful, the walls have ears, especially in a place like this.
5. She leaned in and said, remember, walls have ears, so stay quiet.
6. He whispered the secret because he knew the walls are listening.

Origin and History

Historical Context and Early Usage
The idiom “walls have ears” serves as a cautionary reminder that conversations, even in seemingly private settings, may be overheard. While the exact origin of the phrase is difficult to pinpoint, it is widely believed to have emerged in Europe during the Renaissance period, a time characterized by political intrigue and espionage.

Earliest Printed Record
The earliest known printed usage of the phrase dates back to the 16th century. It appears in a French proverb: “Les murs ont des oreilles,” which translates to “The walls have ears.” This suggests that the idiom was in circulation in France during that time, reflecting societal concerns about surveillance and secrecy.

Association with Catherine de’ Medici
One prevalent theory links the origin of the phrase to Catherine de’ Medici, the Queen of France in the 16th century. Known for her political acumen and involvement in state affairs, Catherine reportedly employed a network of spies and installed listening devices in the walls of the Louvre Palace to monitor conversations. This practice could have given rise to the saying, emphasizing the idea that even walls could “hear” secrets.

Adoption into English Language
The phrase made its way into the English language by the 17th century. Its adoption reflects similar concerns about privacy and the potential for eavesdropping in political and social settings. The idiom’s persistence in English literature and speech underscores its relevance across cultures and eras.

Modern Interpretations and Usage
Today, “walls have ears” is used metaphorically to advise caution when discussing sensitive information, especially in environments where unintended listeners may be present. The phrase has maintained its significance in an age where digital surveillance and information leaks are prevalent, highlighting the timeless nature of concerns about privacy and confidentiality.

Synonyms

1. keep your voice down
2. loose lips sink ships
3. watch what you say
4. someone might be listening

Variants

• the walls are listening
• even the walls have ears
• these walls have ears
• be careful, the walls have ears
• remember, walls have ears

Ear, Wall