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Pinna Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pinna

[หˆpษชnษ™ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

biology anatomy

Pinna refers to the external part of the ear that protrudes from the head. It plays a significant role in collecting sound waves and directing them into the ear canal. In anatomy, it can also describe similar structures in other organisms.

Synonyms

auricle, ear, ear flap.

Examples of usage

  • The pinna helped to amplify the sounds from the environment.
  • In many animals, the size and shape of the pinna can affect hearing capabilities.
  • During the examination, the doctor noted the condition of the pinna.
Context #2 | Noun

marine biology

In marine biology, pinna refers to a genus of large, bivalve mollusks known as fan shells. These creatures are known for their distinctive fan-shaped shells and are primarily found in sandy or shallow coastal waters.

Synonyms

bivalve, fan shell.

Examples of usage

  • The pinna are often harvested for their beautiful shells.
  • Ecologists study pinna to understand their role in coastal ecosystems.
  • Some species of pinna can filter large amounts of seawater efficiently.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Anatomy

  • The pinna is also known as the auricle and plays a key role in directing sound into the ear canal.
  • It is shaped to help capture sound waves from various directions, emphasizing the importance of its unique design.
  • The human pinna has a number of ridges and folds, which help to filter and determine the direction of sound.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, prominent or distinct pinnae are considered symbols of beauty or personality.
  • Some animals, like bunnies and cats, have large pinnae that enhance their ability to hear, influencing how they are portrayed in folklore.
  • Certain indigenous cultures have traditional practices that involve adorning the pinna with jewelry or tattoos.

Science

  • Research indicates that the shape of the pinna affects how we perceive sound frequency, playing a crucial role in hearing.
  • Some species, such as bats, have highly developed pinnae that help them use echolocation to navigate in the dark.
  • Technological advancements have allowed scientists to create artificial devices that mimic the function of the natural pinna to improve sound capture.

Pop Culture

  • In cartoons, characters with exaggerated pinnae are often portrayed as comical or curious, making them memorable visuals.
  • The concept of larger or varied pinnae appears in science fiction, often associating them with advanced or alien intelligence.
  • Fashion trends sometimes emphasize unique ear accessories, showcasing the pinna as a space for creativity and expression.

Origin of 'pinna'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'pinna' comes from the Latin word for 'feather' or 'wing', reflecting its shape.
  • In several languages, the term for the outer ear is derived from similar roots, illustrating a common understanding of its form.
  • The evolution of the term shows how ancient cultures recognized important aspects of human anatomy.

The word 'pinna' originates from Latin, meaning 'feather' or 'wing'. The term was used in classical texts to describe various anatomical structures that resemble the shape of a feather or wing, particularly in reference to parts of the ear. Its application in modern biology stems from this historical association, where it is utilized to describe the protruding parts of external body structures. As the scientific understanding of anatomy and marine life evolved, 'pinna' became a formal term in both human anatomy and marine biology, reflecting the structuresโ€™ functional significance in sound collection and environmental adaptation.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,649, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.