Meaning of the word wiretap in English

What does wiretap mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

wiretap

US /ˈwaɪr.tæp/
UK /ˈwaɪə.tæp/
"wiretap" picture

Verb

to connect a listening device to a telephone line to secretly monitor conversations

Example:
The police had to wiretap the suspect's phone to gather evidence.
He suspected that the government was wiretapping his office.

Noun

an act of using a concealed listening or recording device to monitor communications

Example:
The wiretap revealed a secret meeting between the two gangs.
The judge authorized a wiretap on the suspect's residence.