All Ears

Pronunciation: /ɔːl ɪrz/

Definitions of all ears

noun a phrase used to describe someone who is eagerly listening or paying close attention

Example Sentences

A1 When the teacher asked a question, the students were all ears.

A2 During the meeting, everyone was all ears as the boss shared important updates.

B1 The children were all ears as the storyteller began to weave a magical tale.

B2 The audience was all ears as the renowned scientist explained her groundbreaking research.

C1 The detective was all ears as the suspect revealed crucial information about the crime.

C2 The journalist was all ears during the exclusive interview with the world leader.

Examples of all ears in a Sentence

formal During the lecture, I was all ears to absorb as much information as possible.

informal Tell me what happened, I'm all ears!

slang Spill the tea, I'm all ears.

figurative As soon as she mentioned a surprise, I was all ears and eager to know more.

Grammatical Forms of all ears

• past tense: was all ears
• plural: all ears
• comparative: more all ears
• superlative: most all ears
• present tense: am all ears
• future tense: will be all ears
• perfect tense: have been all ears
• continuous tense: is being all ears
• singular: all ear
• positive degree: all ears
• infinitive: to be all ears
• gerund: being all ears
• participle: all ears

Origin and Evolution of all ears

First Known Use: 1601 year

Language of Origin: English

Story behind the word: The origin of the phrase 'all ears' can be traced back to ancient Greek mythology, specifically the story of King Midas. According to the myth, King Midas had the ears of a donkey due to his foolish wish granted by the god Dionysus. The phrase 'all ears' is believed to have originated from this tale, symbolizing attentiveness and the ability to listen intently.

Evolution of the word: Over time, the phrase 'all ears' has retained its original meaning of being fully attentive and eager to listen. It has become a common idiom in the English language, used to indicate someone's readiness to hear or learn something new.