βουλώνω τα αυτιά (μου)

Translations

• to plug one's ears
• to block one's ears

Literal Translation

to seal/plug the ears (of oneself)

Forms

Usage Notes

The phrase is typically used with a possessive pronoun (μου, σου, του, etc.) to indicate whose ears are being plugged. It can be used both literally (physically blocking ears) and figuratively (refusing to listen).

Etymology

From the verb 'βουλώνω' (to plug/seal) and 'αυτιά' (ears). The phrase originated from the ancient practice of using wax to block ears, as depicted in Homer's Odyssey.

Cultural Context

This phrase appears in Homer's Odyssey when Odysseus's men plug their ears with wax to avoid hearing the Sirens' song. It has become a common idiom in Modern Greek to describe deliberately not listening to something.

• Think of 'βουλώνω' as 'volume down' for your ears
• Imagine putting a 'βούλα' (stamp/seal) on your ears to close them