Definition

1. Noun:
   • The ear canal: The "acoustic meatus" is the anatomical term for the tube-like passage in the outer ear that leads from the external auricle (pinna) to the eardrum (tympanic membrane). It functions to conduct sound waves toward the middle ear.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The doctor examined the patient's acoustic meatus for signs of infection.
  • Earwax is produced in the acoustic meatus to protect it.

Advanced Usage

• "External acoustic meatus": This is the full and precise anatomical term, specifying the passage in the outer ear, as distinct from an internal auditory canal.
  • The external acoustic meatus is lined with skin and contains hairs and ceruminous glands.

Variants and Related Words

• Auditory canal (n): A common synonym for the acoustic meatus.
  • The auditory canal amplifies certain sound frequencies.
• Ear canal (n): The most common, non-technical term.
  • Never insert sharp objects into your ear canal.

Synonyms

• Auditory meatus: A direct synonym with identical meaning.
• External auditory canal: Another precise anatomical synonym.

Related Phrases

• Meatal (adj): Pertaining to a meatus (any bodily passage or opening).
  • The meatal skin is sensitive.

Notes on Meaning

• The term "acoustic meatus" is almost exclusively used in medical, anatomical, and scientific contexts. In everyday language, "ear canal" is the standard term. It refers specifically to the external passage and should not be confused with the Eustachian tube or internal auditory structures.

Noun

1. either of the passages in the outer ear from the auricle to the tympanic membrane