Phrase guide

thick ear

noun · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

noun

Meaning 1

A swollen ear resulting from a blow to the side of the head.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: informal

Examples

  • In the football game he got caught by someone's elbow and came away with a thick ear.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

noun

Meaning 2

A punishment or threatened punishment notionally taking the form of a blow around the head.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: broadly, informal

Qualifier: often in the phrase 'give someone a thick ear'

Examples

  • Say that again and I'll give you a thick ear.
  • I was cheeky to the Police Officer and got a thick ear for my trouble.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.