eardrum

American  

[eer-druhm] / ˈɪərˌdrʌm /

noun

Anatomy, Zoology.

1. a membrane in the ear canal between the external ear and the middle ear; tympanic membrane.

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eardrum British  

/ ˈɪəˌdrʌm /

noun

1. the nontechnical name for tympanic membrane

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eardrum Scientific  

/ îr′drŭm′ /

1. The thin, oval-shaped membrane that separates the middle ear from the outer ear. It vibrates in response to sound waves, which are then transmitted to the ossicles of the middle ear.

2. Also called tympanic membrane

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eardrum Cultural  

1. The membrane that divides the outer ear from the middle ear. The vibrations of this membrane in response to sound waves lead to the sensation of hearing. Also called the tympanic membrane.

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Etymology

Origin of eardrum

First recorded in 1635–45; ear ¹ + drum ¹

Example Sentences

The noise of crickets felt as though it would pierce my eardrums, and I prayed I wouldn’t step on any snakes or scorpions.

From Literature

Modern mammals rely on a middle ear that includes an eardrum and several tiny bones, a system that makes it possible to detect a wide range of sounds at different volumes.

From Science Daily

Moon incurred tinnitus following an injury to his eardrum in recent years, which impacted his ability to work.

From Los Angeles Times

The sparse landscaping on the thoroughfares left sidewalks exposed to the bright sun, and the constant rumble of trucks and buses assaulted the eardrums.

From Los Angeles Times

When those vibrations reach our ears, they send a vibration through our eardrums, which is recognized in the brain as sound.

From Salon