basilar membrane

American  

noun

Anatomy.

1. a supporting membrane, especially the membrane that supports the organ of Corti in the ear and aids in translating sound vibrations into electrical signals.

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Etymology

Origin of basilar membrane

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

When the sound waves in the cochlear fluid contact the basilar membrane, it flexes back and forth in a wave-like fashion.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022

Inside the cochlea, the basilar membrane is a mechanical analyzer that runs the length of the cochlea, curling toward the cochlea’s center.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022

Different regions of the basilar membrane vibrate according to the frequency of the sound wave conducted through the fluid in the cochlea.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022

The basilar membrane vibrates in different regions, according to the frequency of the sound waves impinging on it.

From Textbooks • Jun. 9, 2022

The basilar membrane, while continuous throughout, may be regarded as made up of many separate cords of different lengths stretched side by side.

From Physiology and Hygiene for Secondary Schools by Walters, Francis M.