Adjective
/prɪk-ɪrd/
The term "prick-eared" describes having pointed ears, resembling those of certain animals like dogs or cats. It can also refer to a person or animal that is attentive or alert, often listening intently to sounds around them. This term is relatively rare and is more commonly found in written contexts, particularly in literary or descriptive texts.
In terms of frequency of use, "prick-eared" is not commonly used in everyday conversation. It may appear in poetry, fiction, or descriptive passages in literature more frequently than in spoken English.
The prick-eared rabbit sat stiffly in the bushes, listening for any approaching danger.
El conejo prick-eared se sentó rígido en los arbustos, escuchando cualquier peligro que se aproximara.
She loved her prick-eared cat for its alertness and curious nature, always ready to pounce.
Ella amaba a su gato prick-eared por su alerta y naturaleza curiosa, siempre listo para saltar.
The prick-eared dogs surrounded the campfire, their ears twitching at the slightest noise.
Los perros prick-eared rodeaban la fogata, sus orejas se movían al más mínimo ruido.
The term "prick-eared" does not have established idiomatic expressions commonly associated with it. However, variations across different contexts involving animals or attentiveness can be explored:
Prick-eared attention: "When he heard his name, he turned with prick-eared attention, eager to listen."
Cuando oyó su nombre, se volvió con atención prick-eared, ansioso por escuchar.
Prick-eared listening: "The detective used prick-eared listening to catch every detail during the interrogation."
El detective utilizó escucha prick-eared para captar cada detalle durante el interrogatorio.
Prick-eared observation: "Her prick-eared observation allowed her to notice the smallest changes in her surroundings."
Su observación prick-eared le permitió notar los cambios más pequeños en su entorno.
The word "prick" from Old English "prician" meaning "to pierce" or "to prick" combines with "eared," the past participle of "ear." The imagery of "prick-eared" likely originates from the distinct shape of certain animals' ears that appear sharp or pointed, further reinforcing the idea that they are alert or sensitive to sound.
This comprehensive breakdown captures the nuances of "prick-eared" while providing context for its usage and related expressions.