talk one's ear off

/tˈɔːk wˈɒnz ˈiəɹ ˈɒf/

/tˈɔːk wˈʌnz ˈɪɹ ˈɔf/

[phrase]

to talk one's ear off

[PHRASE]

to talk to someone for an extended period of time, particularly in a way that annoys them

to [talk] {one's} [ear] off definition and meaning

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

The phrase "talk one's ear off" likely emerged in the early 1900s from the irritation and frustration felt by listeners who are unable to get a word in due to someone speaking constantly. The idiom is used informally and often in a critical manner to describe an inconsiderate or self-absorbed speaker who fails to recognize how their relentless talking affects the listener.

Examples

1. She talked my ear off.

2. He talks my ear off every time I call him.

3. She just talked my ears off about politics all night.

4. She would have talked my ear off.

Nearby words

talk a blue streak

with guns blazing

play hard to get

play ducks and drakes with

tie the knot

talk to ralph on the big white telephone

tall poppy

tar with the same brush

teach a lesson

pull hair out