Auricle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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auricle
[ˈɔːrɪkəl ]
Definition
anatomy part
The auricle, also known as the pinna, is the external part of the ear that is visible. It serves to capture sound waves and funnel them into the ear canal, playing a crucial role in the hearing process. The auricle is predominantly made up of cartilage, and its unique shape helps to enhance the directionality of sound, aiding in locating the source of sounds around us. It also plays a minor role in protecting the inner parts of the ear from debris and foreign objects.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The auricle collects sound waves.
- He touched his auricle to adjust his earphone.
- The auricle contributes to sound localization.
- She studied the anatomy of the auricle in her biology class.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Human Anatomy
- In humans, the auricle, or pinna, is the visible part of the ear that directs sound into the ear canal.
- The shape of the auricle varies from person to person and contributes to how we recognize different sounds.
- Different animals have varying shapes of auricles, allowing them to hear sounds better in their environments.
Music and Sound
- The design of the auricle influences how sound is captured, affecting acoustics in concert halls.
- Musicians often study the auricle's role in hearing to improve their performance and sound production.
- Understanding the auricle helps in designing better hearing aids and sound equipment.
Cultural References
- In art, the auricle is sometimes represented in sculptures emphasizing human features and expression.
- Some cultures believed that the shape of one's auricle could influence personality traits, linking physical form to wisdom.
- Songs and literature often metaphorically refer to the 'ear' to signify attentiveness or the ability to listen.
Medicine
- Medical professionals study the auricle to better understand ear diseases and hearing loss.
- Conditions like auricular hematoma can occur from trauma to the ear, common in sports.
- Surgical interventions like otoplasty can reshape the auricle for aesthetic or medical reasons.
Origin of 'auricle'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'auricle' comes from the Latin word 'auricula,' which means 'little ear.'
- Originally, the term referred to both parts of the ear and has evolved to signify the outer ear structure.
- In architecture, 'auricle' can describe a rounded feature resembling the shape of an ear.
The word 'auricle' derives from the Latin 'auricula,' which is a diminutive form of 'auris,' meaning 'ear.' The term has been used since the 14th century to refer to the external part of the ear. In artistic and medical contexts, the term was often utilized to describe the heart's atrial structures, which resemble ears. Over time, the term has been adapted to encompass various meanings in different fields, particularly in anatomy and biology. Today, 'auricle' is primarily associated with the visible part of the ear in both medical terminology and common vernacular. Its adoption in various languages has also cemented its relevance in discussions about auditory anatomy.