outer ear

noun

1. external ear.

outer ear

1. The part of the ear in many vertebrates that is external to the eardrum (tympanic membrane) and contains the canal leading to the eardrum as well as the ear lobe and other visible structures. In mammals, the outer ear, which is made mostly of cartilage, gathers and focuses incoming sound waves and transmits them to the eardrum.

2. See more at ear

outer ear

1. The part of the ear that projects from the side of the head and functions to gather and guide sound waves toward the eardrum.

Word History and Origins

Origin of outer ear¹

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

"This new technology may eventually provide an option that feels real for thousands needing surgery to correct outer ear deformities."

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Some models put most of the electronics behind the ear, then run a wire or tube to a receiver in the ear canal or fit it into the outer ear.

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With outer ear cups that promptly collect smudges and finger oils, these don’t look the part of premium, flagship noise-canceling headphones in the same way their direct predecessors did.

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This is another “your mileage may vary” situation, but they felt a little too large to nest comfortably within my outer ear area, resulting in discomfort verging on mild pain after some time.

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There are obvious tweaks to the outer ear cup shape.

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