give sb bunny ears

/ɡˈɪv ˌɛsbˈiː bˈʌni ˈiəz/

/ɡˈɪv ˌɛsbˈiː bˈʌni ˈɪɹz/

to give sb bunny ears

to make one's fingers V-shaped and put them behind a person's head as a way of joking, particularly when taking a photograph

What is the origin of the idiom "give someone bunny ears" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "give someone bunny ears" is less clear compared to some other idioms. It likely emerged from the practice of making bunny ears with one's fingers and placing them behind someone's head during a photograph. The intent is usually playful or mischievous, and the gesture is used to create a humorous or whimsical effect in the photo. This phrase is not used in formal or serious contexts. It is often used informally, especially when discussing photos, to describe the act of making bunny ears behind someone's head as a prank or joke during photography. It is a light-hearted way to describe a playful action.

Examples

1. Dad gave him bunny ears in the second picture.

2. Oh, you're giving me bunny ears?

3. - I just gave you bunny ears.