earwax
Definition
Noun: A soft, yellowish, waxy substance secreted by glands in the ear canal. Its function is to protect the ear by trapping dust, microorganisms, and other small particles, and to lubricate the ear canal.
Usage
"Earwax" is an uncountable noun. It refers to the substance itself, not individual pieces. It is typically used in medical, hygienic, or general descriptive contexts.
Examples
- The doctor removed the impacted earwax from the patient's ear.
- A small amount of earwax is normal and healthy for ear protection.
- He used a cotton swab, which can push earwax deeper into the ear canal.
Advanced Usage
- Cerumen: This is the formal medical term for earwax. It is used in clinical settings.
- The nurse documented "excessive cerumen" in the patient's chart.
- Impacted earwax: This phrase describes earwax that has built up and hardened, potentially causing hearing loss or discomfort.
- Hearing loss can sometimes be caused by impacted earwax.
Variants and Related Words
- Cerumen (n): The medical term for earwax.
- Ear canal (n): The tube leading from the outer ear to the eardrum, where earwax is produced.
Synonyms
- Cerumen (medical synonym)
Notes on Meaning
"Earwax" has only one primary meaning. It is not used idiomatically or in phrasal verbs.
Noun
-
a soft yellow wax secreted by glands in the ear canal
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