flea in the ear

flea in the ear

1. Something annoying. That constant beeping has become a flea in the ear. Is there any way to stop it?
2. A harsh reprimand. I had to talk to Mr. Myers about the botched report today, and boy, did he give me a flea in the ear.
See also: ear, flea
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • a box on the ear
  • nag
  • nag at
  • nag at (one)
  • put (someone or something) under a microscope
  • give (someone) what for, to
  • get after
  • get after (someone or something)
  • give (one) a tongue-lashing
  • give someone a tongue-lashing
References in periodicals archive
"His accuracy with a football is better than with a rifle," joked warrant officer Bob Jeffrey, happy to give one last flea in the ear to the new pounds 3million Soldier Blue.
First team squaddie!