to talk to someone privately, especially in order to give them advice or a warning.
The boss had a word in his ear after the last meeting and I don't think he'll be raising the subject again.
(redirected from have a word in ear)
have a word in (one's) ear
To speak to one privately, often to issue a suggestion or warning. I'm confident that that intern will stop slacking off once I have a word in his ear.
have a word in someone's ear
speak to someone privately and discreetly, usually to give them a warning. informal
have a word in somebody’s ˈear
(British English) speak to somebody in private about something: Can I have a word in your ear, John?