“Box someone’s ears” is an idiomatic expression that is used to describe a physical action of hitting someone on the side of their head with an open hand. This expression has been in use for centuries and is still used today, although it is not as common as it once was.
Definitions
The phrase “box someone’s ears” is often used to describe a physical action of hitting someone on the side of their head with an open hand. This action can be done as a form of punishment or as a way to show anger or frustration towards someone.
Origin
The origin of the phrase “box someone’s ears” is not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in the 17th century. The word “box” was used to describe a blow or a hit, and “ears” referred to the side of the head. Over time, the two words were combined to create the phrase “box someone’s ears.”
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the phrase “box someone’s ears” means to strike someone on the side of the head with the hand. Merriam-Webster defines it as a slap on the ear, and the Cambridge Dictionary defines it as a light blow on the side of the head.
Associations
The phrase “box someone’s ears” is often associated with physical violence and aggression. It is not a socially acceptable way of dealing with conflict or expressing anger towards someone.
Synonyms
There are several synonyms for the phrase “box someone’s ears,” including slap, hit, strike, and cuff.
Antonyms
The antonyms of the phrase “box someone’s ears” would be to ignore or avoid someone, or to use nonviolent methods of conflict resolution.
The same root words
The word “box” is the root word in the phrase “box someone’s ears.” It is also used in other phrases, such as “box someone’s nose” or “box someone’s jaw.”
Example Sentences
- “I’m going to box your ears if you don’t stop talking back to me.”
- “He deserved to have his ears boxed for the way he treated her.”
- “I was so angry that I wanted to box his ears, but I knew that wouldn’t solve anything.”
In conclusion, the phrase “box someone’s ears” is an idiomatic expression that describes a physical action of hitting someone on the side of their head with an open hand. While it may have been more common in the past, it is not an acceptable way to deal with conflict or express anger towards someone in today’s society.