Box somebody’s ears
verb
To slap someone lightly on the sides of their heads.
If you keep misbehaving, I'll box your ears.
Often appears as...
- threaten to box somebody's ears
- want to box somebody's ears
Usage tips
Informal, Disapproving
Colloquial
verb
To scold or reprimand someone.
I'm going to box your ears if you don't start behaving.
Often appears as...
- scold by boxing ears
- reprimand by boxing ears
Usage tips
Informal, Disapproving
Idiomatic
verb
To slap someone lightly on the sides of their heads.
If you keep misbehaving, I'll box your ears.
Often appears as...
- threaten to box somebody's ears
- want to box somebody's ears
Usage tips
Informal, Disapproving
Colloquial
verb
To scold or reprimand someone.
I'm going to box your ears if you don't start behaving.
Often appears as...
- scold by boxing ears
- reprimand by boxing ears
Usage tips
Informal, Disapproving
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Archaic Usage
The phrase is outdated and not commonly used in modern English, mostly found in historical contexts.
In the 19th century novel, the nanny threatened to box the child's ears.
Pro Tip 2/3Physical Gesture
Originally meant a physical action but often used metaphorically today to imply a warning.
He's so noisy, I sometimes joke I'll box his ears.
Pro Tip 3/3Severity Spectrum
Can indicate a range of severity from gentle to more forceful based on context.
Stop that racket, or I'll actually box your ears!
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