chew one's ear (off)

Definition & Meaning of "chew one's ear (off)"

to chew one's ear (off)

PHRASE

to make others tired by talking too much

to [chew] {one's} [ear] (off|) definition and meaning

Disapproving

Idiom

Informal

What is the origin of the idiom "chew one's ear off" and when to use it?

The exact origin of the phrase "chew one's ear off" is unclear, but it likely derives from the imagery of someone talking so much and for so long that it feels as though they are gnawing or chewing on the listener's ear. The phrase has been in use since at least the early 20th century and has become a common expression in English to describe someone who talks excessively or monopolizes a conversation without allowing others to participate. It captures the idea of being subjected to an overwhelming amount of words, akin to the sensation of having one's ear chewed on incessantly.

Example

At the party, Mark cornered me and chewed my ear off about his latest hobby, leaving me desperately searching for an escape route.

I met my neighbor at the grocery store, and she proceeded to chew my ear off with a long-winded story about her cat's adventures.

I made the mistake of asking my aunt about her favorite TV show, and she proceeded to chew my ear off for hours with episode recaps and character analysis.

I met my neighbor at the grocery store, and she proceeded to chew my ear off with a long-winded story about her cat's adventures.

I made the mistake of asking my aunt about her favorite TV show, and she proceeded to chew my ear off for hours with episode recaps and character analysis.