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to pin back one's ears
01
to pay attention to something that is being said
![to [pin] back {one's} ears definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/19184/original/listener?type=jpeg "to [pin] back {one's} ears definition and meaning")
What is the origin of the idiom "pin back one's ears" and when to use it?
The origin of the idiom "pin back one's ears" is not precisely documented, but it likely evolved from the imagery of animals, particularly horses and dogs, which tend to pin their ears back when they are alert, attentive, or reacting to certain stimuli. This ear position can indicate their heightened state of awareness or responsiveness. It is used to encourage someone to pay close attention, be alert, or listen carefully to information, instructions, or a particular situation.
Example
I'm just pinning back my ears because I'm not smart enough to understand the science behind the tech.
During the halftime talk, the coach urged the players to pin back their ears and follow the new strategy carefully.
The professor told the students to pin back their ears, as he was about to reveal the key concepts for the upcoming exam.
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