Indicates a deliberate attempt to hear something not easily audible. In the bustling café, she cocked an ear to catch the soft music playing.
Pro Tip 2/3
Subtle Interest
Suggests a discreet display of interest or curiosity about something. He cocked an eye at the stranger's peculiar attire.
Pro Tip 3/3
Idiomatic Usage
The phrase is more common in literary or descriptive contexts than in everyday speech. The detective cocked an ear at every nuance in the suspect's story.