pricks up one's ears
Starts listening intently
Pricks up one's ears describes suddenly becoming alert and attentive, especially upon hearing something interesting or concerning.
The phrase comes from the way animals like dogs and horses raise their ears when they detect an unexpected sound.
She pricked up her ears when she heard her name mentioned in the next room.
The expression suggests heightened awareness and keen interest in what's being said or what might happen next.
- perkEmployment bonus
- perk upBecome more alert
- hearPerceive by ear
- sharp hearingAcute auditory sensitivity
- inquisitivenessEager desire to learn
twitch · eavesdrop · catch wind of · surprise · focus · vigilance · discern · excitement · tilt · strain · heedfulness · cock · listen · apprehension · intrigue · concentration · react · attentiveness
pricks up one's earstunes out
Ceases to attend
ignores · zones out · switches off · closes one's ears · disregards