Definition

1. Noun:
   • The outer part of the ear: The "external ear" is the visible, cartilaginous portion of the ear that projects from the side of the head. Its primary function is to collect sound waves and funnel them into the ear canal.

Usage

• The term "external ear" is used in anatomical, medical, and general descriptive contexts to specify the outer structure, distinguishing it from the middle and inner ear.
• It is typically used with definite or indefinite articles (the, an) or possessive determiners (my, your).

Examples

• Noun:
  • The doctor examined her external ear for signs of infection.
  • An injury to the external ear can affect hearing.
  • The external ear, or pinna, helps in localizing sound.

Advanced Usage

• Clinical Context: In medical terminology, conditions like "external ear canal obstruction" or "external ear deformity" are discussed, where "external ear" functions as a noun modifier for more specific anatomical parts or issues.

Variants and Related Words

• Auricle (noun): A technical synonym for the visible part of the external ear.
• Pinna (noun): The primary, projecting part of the external ear.
• Outer ear (noun phrase): A common alternative term with the same meaning.

Synonyms

• Auricle
• Pinna
• Outer ear

Related Phrases

• External auditory meatus/canal: The tube leading from the external ear to the eardrum.
• External ear infection: Medical term for an infection in the outer ear structure (otitis externa).

Noun

1. the part of the ear visible externally