Used frequently in a figurative sense (Psalm 34:15). To "uncover the ear" is to show respect to a person (1 Samuel 20:2 marg.). To have the "ear heavy", or to have "uncircumcised ears" (Isaiah 6:10), is to be inattentive and disobedient. To have the ear "bored" through with an awl was a sign of perpetual servitude (Exodus 21:6).

Noah Webster's New International Dictionary of the English Language

1. (n.) The organ of hearing; the external ear.

2. (n.) The sense of hearing; the perception of sounds; the power of discriminating between different tones; as, a nice ear for music; -- in the singular only.

3. (n.) That which resembles in shape or position the ear of an animal; any prominence or projection on an object, -- usually one for support or attachment; a lug; a handle; as, the ears of a tub, a skillet, or dish. The ears of a boat are outside kneepieces near the bow.

4. (n.) Same as Acroterium.

5. (n.) Same as Crossette.

6. (n.) Privilege of being kindly heard; favor; attention.

7. (v. t.) To take in with the ears; to hear.

8. (n.) The spike or head of any cereal (as, wheat, rye, barley, Indian corn, etc.), containing the kernels.

9. (v. i.) To put forth ears in growing; to form ears, as grain; as, this corn ears well.

10. (v. t.) To plow or till; to cultivate.