Meaning: This idiom is used to describe the act of talking to someone at length, often about a specific topic or concern, usually in a persistent or tiresome manner. It implies monopolizing someone’s attention or time with one’s conversation or chatter.
Usage in Example Sentences:
- “He bent my ear for hours with his complaints about work.”
- “She’s always bending my ear about her latest hobby; I wish she would talk about something else.”
- “I didn’t mean to bend his ear for so long, but I needed someone to talk to about my problems.”
Origin: The origin of the idiom “bend someone’s ear” is uncertain, but it likely stems from the literal action of bending one’s head or body towards someone to speak to them closely, suggesting intimacy or familiarity. Over time, the phrase evolved into a figurative expression used to describe the act of engaging someone in a lengthy or intense conversation. It emphasizes the idea of talking at length, often in a manner that may be perceived as burdensome or excessive by the listener.
