the better to hear.

[keannu]

What is the usage of "the better" here? I don't know what it means.

mo3-35
ex) Over the sky a plump black cloud moved, erasing the stars. At that moment, Liz heard a stealthy step far to her
left and immediately froze. She slowly released her knees and straightened her head, the better to hear. The movement
stopped, and after a long moment began again.

 

[charliedeut]

Hi keannu,

It means "in order to hear better". I'm not sure about the why, though.

charliedeut

 

[keannu]

I have never seen this, though.

 

[bhaisahab]

I have never seen this, though.

It just goes to show that you are learning new things all the time.;-)

 

[Amigos4]

keannu, refer to "phrases" at Definition of better - Oxford Dictionaries (British & World English)

Cheers,
A4

 

[Tdol]

I have never seen this, though.

It's not that common, but it is used.