Cock an ear/eye at something/somebody

usgb
verb

To listen or look attentively or carefully.

She cocked an ear at the conversation happening in the next room.
Visual representation of "cock an ear/eye at something/somebody" - To listen or look attentively or carefully

Often appears as...

  • cock an ear toward
  • cock an ear to hear

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "cock an ear/eye at something/somebody"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Active Listening

Indicates a deliberate attempt to hear something not easily audible.

Illustration for Active Listening
In the bustling café, she cocked an ear to catch the soft music playing.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Subtle Interest

Suggests a discreet display of interest or curiosity about something.

Illustration for Subtle Interest
He cocked an eye at the stranger's peculiar attire.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Idiomatic Usage

The phrase is more common in literary or descriptive contexts than in everyday speech.

Illustration for Idiomatic Usage
The detective cocked an ear at every nuance in the suspect's story.
Visual representation of the word "Cock an ear/eye at something/somebody"

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