Word and Phrase Origins

What is the origin of the phrase all ears?

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2009-10-26 22:12:40
2009-10-26 22:12:40
Meaning: eager to listen; attentive

Origin: The ear is the organ by which a person hears. So, if we figuratively say that "you are all ears," it means that at that moment you are keenly listening to whatever is being said. It's as if no other part of your body mattered except your ears. This idiom is about three centuries old.

Waiting with excitement to hear what the person has to say.

Example: "You said you had something important to tell me. I'm all ears!"

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