Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

to box someone's ears

idiom

/təʊ bɒks ˈsʌmwʌnz ɪəz/

Definition

To slap or hit someone on the sides of their head, usually as a form of punishment or reprimand.

Examples

When the child misbehaved, his mother said she would box his ears if he didn’t stop.
He was so caught up in his thoughts that his friend jokingly threatened to box his ears to bring him back to reality.

Meaning

This phrase is often used to describe a physical gesture of correction or discipline, suggesting a swift and somewhat playful approach to addressing someone’s behavior.