have something by the ears

have (someone or something) by the ears

To have someone or something fully under control or domination. The flu had me by the ears last week, but I'm finally feeling better now. I'm afraid Legal has us by the ears until this audit is done, so if they ask us for any files, that becomes your top priority. Sam's mother has always had him by the ears, so, no, I'm not surprised he's still doting on her at 50.

See also: by, ear, have

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

have something by the ears

keep or obtain a secure hold on.

1949 Dylan Thomas Letter I am tangled in hack-work. Depression has me by the ears.

See also: by, ear, have, something

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017