have half an ear onhave half an ear on (something)
to listen to something without giving it all your attention.
I had half an ear on the radio as he was talking to me.
(redirected from have half an ear on)
have half an ear on (someone or something)
To listen to someone or something intermittently or half-heartedly while something else is happening. Unfortunately, I don't remember what Mom said because I had half an ear on her while also trying to watch the game.