Learn English – the origin of the expression “to prick one’s ears up”

etymology

What is the origin of the expression "to prick one's ears up"? Does this come from an actual physical action seen in animals or from some literature reference?

Best Answer

It comes from the action an animal with suitable ears makes when it hears something important and tries to hear better. The first dog here has his ears pricked up, while the second does not.

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When used of animals such as dogs or cats, it is a literal expression. It becomes a metaphor when it is used of persons. The Free Dictionary says:

prick up its ears and prick up one's ears
Fig. [for an animal or a person] to become attentive. (The animal will adjust its ears toward the sound.) The sound made the dog prick its ears up. When Fred heard his name, he pricked up his ears.

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