ear

word

/ˈiɹ/
eer
/ˈiə/
ee-uh

Definition

The ear is the part of the body used for hearing, on each side of the head. It can also mean the ability to notice and understand sounds, music, or spoken language well.

Usage & Nuances

Usually countable for the body part: 'an ear', 'my ears'. In phrases like 'have a good ear for music' or 'play by ear', it refers to listening skill, not the body part. Common expressions: 'in one ear and out the other', 'keep your ear to the ground'.

Example Sentences

My left ear hurts.

basic

The baby has small ears.

basic

She has a good ear for music.

basic

Sorry, I didn't catch that—could you say it again in my ear a little louder?

natural

That advice went in one ear and out the other.

natural

Let's play it by ear and see how the meeting goes.

natural