βάλεις (κάποιον) να δουλώσει τα αυτιά του

Translations

• to have someone plug their ears
• to make someone block their ears

Literal Translation

to put (someone) to enslave their ears

Forms

Usage Notes

This phrase is typically used with the verb 'βάζω' (to put) in a causative construction, or directly as 'δουλώνω τα αυτιά' (to plug one's ears). In modern Greek, 'βουλώνω τα αυτιά' is more common.

Etymology

From 'δουλώνω' (to enslave/block/seal) and 'αυτιά' (ears). The verb 'δουλώνω' comes from 'δούλος' (slave) but has extended meanings including 'to seal/block'.

Cultural Context

This phrase appears in Homer's Odyssey when Odysseus is instructed to have his sailors plug their ears with wax to avoid hearing the Sirens' song. While not used daily in modern Greek, it's recognized from this famous literary context.

• Think of 'enslaving' your ears so they can't hear anything - they become slaves to silence
• Visualize putting a 'δούλος' (slave) in your ear to block sound