Meaning of the word "little pitchers have big ears" in English

What does "little pitchers have big ears" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

little pitchers have big ears

US /ˈlɪt.əl ˈpɪtʃ.ərz hæv bɪɡ ɪrz/
UK /ˈlɪt.əl ˈpɪtʃ.əz hæv bɪɡ ɪəz/
"little pitchers have big ears" picture

Idiom

a warning that small children often overhear and understand more than adults realize

Example:
Be careful what you say about the neighbors; little pitchers have big ears.
I stopped talking when the kids walked in, remembering that little pitchers have big ears.