Definitions:

1. Describes a situation where someone receives or experiences a lot of something, often unwanted or overwhelming. ADVERB
   • He received an earful of criticism from his colleagues.
2. Refers to a quantity of sound or speech that is heard by someone, typically a lot more than expected. NOUN
   • I got an earful from my boss about being late to the meeting.

Synonyms:

• bawling out
• castigation
• chewing out
• going-over
• upbraiding