A1noun1K

Ear

UK /["/ɪə(r)/"]/US /["/ɪr/"]/

Definition

either of the organs on the sides of the head that you hear with

In simple words: The part of the body that hears sounds.

Examples

  • She whispered into his ear during the movie.
  • He has a good ear for music and can easily identify notes.
  • The doctor examined her ear to check for any problems.
  • People say you should listen to your ear when it comes to advice.
  • The corn is ready to harvest when the ear is fully developed.

Usage notes

Use 'ear' when talking about hearing or listening. It can refer to the physical part or the act of listening. Not appropriate in very formal writing where specific terms (e.g., auditory system) are preferred.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'ear' like 'hear' — they sound alike and are about listening.

Collocations

  • left
  • right
  • inner
  • plug
  • stop
  • block
  • catch something
  • detect something
  • hear something
  • canal
  • drum
  • lobe
  • in your ear
  • be all ears
  • beam, grin, smile, etc. from ear to ear
  • bend somebody’s ear
  • fine
  • good
  • keen
  • have
  • attune
  • by ear
  • ear for
  • have a tin ear for something

Synonyms

  • hearing organ
  • auditory structure
  • auditory system

Antonyms

  • eye

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'ear' (body part) and 'here' (location)
  • Use 'ears' in plural when discussing both ears, not just one
  • Incorrectly using the term in idiomatic expressions not related to hearing