耳みみをダンボにする

expression, suru verb (irregular)

prick up one's ears; listen attentively

Idiomatic expression meaning to listen very carefully, as if making one's ears as big as Dumbo's. Often used when trying to catch faint or distant sounds.

See also: 耳がダンボ (みみがダンボ)

• 隣となりの部屋へやの話はなしが気きになって、耳みみをダンボにした。

  Curious about the conversation in the next room, I pricked up my ears.

• 赤あかちゃんが泣ないていないか、耳みみをダンボにして聞きいていた。

  I was listening attentively, straining my ears to hear if the baby was crying.