βάλεις (κάποιον) να δουλώσει τα αυτιά του με κερί

Translations

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

Literal Translation

to put (someone) to enslave their ears with wax

Forms

Usage Notes

This phrase is often used in the imperative or with modal verbs like 'πρέπει να' (must). While the original mythological context uses wax, modern versions might substitute other materials.

Etymology

From the verb 'δουλώνω' (to enslave, to block, to seal) and 'αυτιά' (ears). In this context, it means to block or seal the ears completely.

Cultural Context

This phrase appears in Homer's Odyssey when Odysseus is advised by Circe to have his sailors plug their ears with wax to avoid hearing the deadly song of the Sirens. It has become a metaphorical expression for deliberately avoiding hearing something dangerous or tempting.

• Think of 'δουλώνω' (douloNo) as 'DO LOW NOISE' - you're making the noise level low by blocking your ears
• Imagine enslaving (δουλώνω) your ears so they can't hear anything except what you allow