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Eardrum: meaning, definitions and examples

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eardrum

 

[ ˈɪr.drʌm ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

anatomy, hearing

The eardrum, also known as the tympanic membrane, is a thin membrane that separates the outer ear from the middle ear. It plays a crucial role in the hearing process by vibrating in response to sound waves. These vibrations are then transmitted to the tiny bones in the middle ear and ultimately converted into nerve signals that the brain interprets as sound. The eardrum is also responsible for protecting the inner ear from foreign objects and infections.

Synonyms

ear membrane, tympanic membrane

Examples of usage

  • He accidentally punctured his eardrum while cleaning his ears.
  • The eardrum vibrated due to the loud music.
  • Doctors can assess eardrum health using a simple otoscope examination.

Translations

Translations of the word "eardrum" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tímpano

🇮🇳 कर्णपट्टिका

🇩🇪 Trommelfell

🇮🇩 gendang telinga

🇺🇦 барабанна перетинка

🇵🇱 błona bębenkowa

🇯🇵 鼓膜 (こまく)

🇫🇷 tympan

🇪🇸 tímpano

🇹🇷 kulak zarı

🇰🇷 고막

🇸🇦 طبلة الأذن

🇨🇿 bubínek

🇸🇰 bubienok

🇨🇳 耳膜 (ěr mó)

🇸🇮 bobnična membrana

🇮🇸 eyrnabark

🇰🇿 құлақ пердесі

🇬🇪 სმენური ჩასახმარი

🇦🇿 qulaq tympanı

🇲🇽 tímpano

Word origin

The term 'eardrum' originates from the combination of 'ear,' derived from Old English 'eare,' and 'drum,' which refers to a membrane or structure that vibrates in response to sound. The word has been in use since the early 17th century to describe the tympanic membrane due to its distinctive drum-like function in the auditory system. This anatomical structure is crucial for hearing, and its name reflects both its location and its function. The study of the eardrum has evolved over centuries, enhancing our understanding of auditory processes and leading to improved medical interventions for ear-related ailments.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,377 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.