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to perk (up) one's ears
01
to hear something interesting and start to listen to it carefully
![to [perk|prick] (up|) {one's} ears definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/42696/original/?type=jpeg "to [perk|prick] (up|) {one's} ears definition and meaning")
What is the origin of the idiom "perk one's ears" and when to use it?
The phrase "perk one's ears" is an idiom that originates from the behavior of horses. When a horse is alert or attentive, it tends to perk or prick its ears, raising them upright to better listen to sounds or detect movements. In the context of the idiom, it is used to describe the act of becoming attentive and alert to sounds or information.
Example
So, if there's a simple way to make your business more profitable, you should perk your ears.
As soon as the boss mentioned possible promotions, the employees pricked up their ears, hoping to hear more details.
The children pricked up their ears when they heard the word 'ice-cream'.
He used obscene words that pricked my ears.
In a business meeting, it's important to prick up your ears to understand the client's needs and concerns.
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